14/12/2004

Shopworkers warned to beware of festive 'blitz'

The UK's shopworkers have been urged to be on their guard when selling age-restricted products following the recent announcement of another clampdown on alcohol-related violence and disorder.

Retail workers union Usdaw has urged members to refuse the sale of age-restricted goods if they are in any doubt of the age of the purchaser.

Following a summer crackdown on shops selling alcohol to under 18-year-olds the Government is keen to repeat the scheme’s success.

The union has warned shopworkers to expect more ‘sting’ type operations from the local police and local authority trading standards officers.

These involve underage youngsters being sent into stores to try and buy age-restricted goods while under police surveillance.

(SP)

Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

10 February 2005
Conservatives propose local police commissioners
Conservative leader, Michael Howard, has announced plans to introduce local police commissioners, as part of the party's law and order policy. Mr Howard unveiled plans to replace "remote and unaccountable" police authorities across England and Wales, with directly elected local police commissioners.
26 April 2013
Former Police Officer Admits Selling Information
A former police officer has admitted to selling information to the newspaper The Sun. According to the BBC, 30-year-old James Bowes is now facing jail after he pleaded guilty to one count of misconduct in public office. Mr Bowes was a police sergeant on the Sussex Police neighbourhood policing team.
03 May 2013
RBS 'Could Be Privatised' By Next Year
The chairman of the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) has said the bank will be set to return to the private sector next year. Sir Philip Hampton made the comment in a video statement on the bank's website after the institution reported a return to profit for the first three months of the year.
03 June 2009
Consumer Direct Issues Warning To Mobility Aid Buyers
A rise in complaints about mobility aids has led Consumer Direct to issue a warning about the sharp practices of some operators selling mobility scooters, bath aids and orthopaedic furniture.
09 May 2013
Former Police Officer Jailed For Selling Stories
A former police officer has been jailed for 10 months after selling a story to The Sun newspaper. According to the BBC, Brighton-based James Bowes contacted the publication, as well as the News of the World, on three separate occasions, offering to sell information.