Labour MP Jim McGovern supports Community's Campaign on abuse of Betting Shop staff
Speaking today in the House of Commons Dundee West MP Jim McGovern asked the Leader of the House for a debate on the increase in verbal and physical attacks on workers with particular focus on betting shop workers.
Mr McGovern said:
‘Can we have a debate in Government time on the increase in physical and verbal assaults on workers with particular focus on betting shop workers. I have had a number of representations from the trade union Community on this issue. It is unacceptable that so many workers see such assaults as ‘part of their job’ and as an overwhelmingly female workforce this is a very important and pressing issue.’
In response the Leader of the House of Commons replied;
‘The trade unions are, I am pleased to say taking a lead on this issue through the establishment of trade union equality representatives. I will speak with the appropriate Ministry to ask for a special provision of trade union equality representatives for betting shop workers.’
After the debate Mr McGovern added;
‘I am very happy with the answer Ms Harman gave and whole heartedly agree that the trade unions do take an important lead on this issue, as I have previously said, the issue itself was initially brought to my attention by Community trade union during one of my constituency surgeries.’
‘It is unfortunate therefore, that in a recent meeting with senior representatives from Ladbrokes, who have fourteen shops in Dundee West, a representative from Community trade union, who represent the majority of betting shop staff in Dundee, was refused permission to attend.’
‘If you are or have been subjected to abuse in the workplace it is crucial that you report the incident. Everyone has a right to work in a safe environment free from the anxiety, stress and physical pain caused by abuse in the workplace’