SHOPWORKERS welcomed the Scottish Parliament’s unanimous vote yesterday in favour of the first stage of legislation to protect them from abuse, threats and violence — while in England Tories vetoed a debate on the Bill.

Retail union Usdaw is campaigning for Britain-wide legislation to deter abusive behaviour through tougher sentencing.

Instances of abuse have doubled since the coronavirus lockdown, with some customers reacting with anger when shop staff remind them that they should wear face masks and observe social distancing in stores.