Scottish Parliament has pledged its support for the first phase of MSP Daniel Johnson’s Protection for Shopworker’s Bill.

Following the Scottish government announcing its support for the new bill, it achieved unanimous backing in Holyrood and will now move on to the next stage of parliamentary scrutiny.

Abuse or assaults related to the sale of age-restricted products would also face increased potential punishments for offenders.

“When we ask people to uphold the law, they should have the specific protection of the law,” Johnson explained.

The second reading of a similar bill in Westminster was due to take place on 25 September.

Despite the backing of unions, trade groups and every major supermarket, the government objected to the Protection for Shopworker’s Bill progressing, delaying its next reading until 30 October.

Labour MP Alex Norris, who promoted the bill, expressed his disappointment at the government’s decision.

Shoplifting up following new coronavirus face mask rules

The developments came as a survey by retail union Usdaw found enforcing coronavirus regulations are a leading trigger for abuse against shopworkers, with 68% of retailers identifying enforcing social distancing as a main trigger and 50% noting regulating queues.

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