HELPING LOCAL RETAILERS IMPROVE SECURITY FOR SHOPWORKERS

Early day motion 1886, tabled 6 November 2003 by Gwyn Prosser (Labour). Signed by 68 members.

That this House recognises the importance and value of the convenience store to communities large and small throughout the United Kingdom and to the economy as a whole; notes that many such stores are small, independent businesses which can be forced out of business all too easily by persistent crime; further notes the alarming increase in violent crime against shopworkers in recent years; recognises the impact that basic security equipment can have on reducing such crime; regrets that many such items can be beyond the budgets of small businesses; applauds the work of USDAW and the Association of Convenience Stores in highlighting this important issue; and calls on the Government to adopt their proposals for 100 per cent. first year tax relief for investments made by small store owners in security equipment to safeguard this important area of the economy and those whose livelihoods depend on it.

Signatures by party: Labour 42, Liberal Democrat 12, Labour/Co-operative 6, Conservative 3, Plaid Cymru 2, Independent 1, Independent Ulster Unionist 1, Scottish National Party 1.