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MP backs drive to protect retail staff
03 February 2006
Plymouth Sutton MP Linda Gilroy is backing Usdaw’s campaign to introduce a national ID scheme to stop underage drinkers buying alcohol.
Linda Gilroy visited union reps at her local Co-op store in Wolseley Road, Plymouth, to discuss what she can do at Westminster to help the petition in support of a national 'No ID, No Sale' scheme.
The union is deeply concerned that shopworkers are being put under intense pressure to make snap judgements as to 'who is and who is not old enough' to buy age restricted products. This comes at a time when reports show more and more underage people attempt to buy alcohol.
"We believe the way forward is a nationally co-ordinated ID scheme for teenagers, backed up by a national 'No-ID, No Sale' poster campaign in Britain's stores," said general secretary John Hannett.
"We're very grateful for the support of respected backbench MPs like Linda and I know the staff will have appreciated her visit to discuss the issues."
Local area organiser Linda Riggs is also working hard to protect her members. "Usdaw is working closely with the Plymouth and South West Co-operative Society to make sure sales aren't made to underage people," she said (see Usdaw's leaflet Preventing Underage Sales). "We are looking at setting up a working group with the society to address all of the issues around this problem; the law, procedures, safety, and the importance of not selling to anyone who appears to be underage.
"It's an issue that's been around a long time but underage drinking is getting worse and with the threat of a hefty fine hanging over our members it's something we all need to get to grips with.
Having the support of your local MP does help and we're grateful for Linda Gilroy's support."
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