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Union calls for proof of age ID
11 July 2005
The Government should introduce a proof of age scheme to protect shopworkers from underage youths trying to buy restricted products and should prevent retail staff from being given on-the-spot fines from police carrying out ‘sting’ operations.
The call came as part of Usdaw's award winning Freedom From Fear campaign which was given a further boost on July 13 when the union held its annual Respect For Shopworkers Day.
"Our members are under threat and under pressure," said general secretary John Hannett. "Refusing an underage sale often results in our members being abused and sometimes threatened and attacked.
"On top of this, trading standards and the police carry out 'sting' operations which test sales staff on whether they are selling restricted goods like alcohol and cigarettes to underage youths.
"Sometimes it's difficult to tell whether someone is 14, 16, or 18, especially when you have a long queue at the checkout and you are under pressure to serve quickly. Then to be faced with an £80 fine, on top of possible disciplinary action, is just not on.
"We want the Government and employers to co-operate on the introduction of a compulsory proof of age scheme to protect our members."
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