Retail trade union hopes government announcement to tackle coronavirus spread will lead to calm in supermarkets
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Retail trade union Usdaw has welcomed the UK government announcement to introduce strict rules and limit reasons for people to leave their homes in a bid to tackle the spread of coronavirus.
Usdaw general secretary Paddy Lillis said his organisation, which represents over 400,000 members, had called for more clarity on government advice, particularly around the closure of non-food shops.
"We now have clear instructions and we urge the public to listen and act accordingly," he said.
“As a result, we are aware of that some employers are laying staff off and asking them to go without pay until the government’s coronavirus job protection scheme commences, potentially at the end of April.
"Low paid workers cannot wait this long without pay and we urge the government to act urgently to protect the workforce and for employers to act sympathetically.”
“Our members in supermarkets have had a torrid time over the last few days due to panic buying.
"The government has made it absolutely clear that people can only leave home to buy essential items.
"We hope that brings to an end the misery that shopworkers have endured as this crisis unfolded.
“I would like to pay tribute to the essential workers who will continue to leave their homes and work to help us through the coronavirus emergency. They deserve our appreciation and admiration.”
