// Usdaw calls for “new deal” for retail, manufacturing, distribution and home delivery workers in the wake of Covid-19
// The union called for a £10 minimum wage for all workers & improved sick pay
// It also called for minimum contracts of 16 hours per week and a ban on zero-hour contracts
Millions of low-paid and undervalued workers – including retail staff – deserve a “new deal” because of their efforts during the coronavirus crisis, according to a trade union.
Usdaw marked International Workers Day today by praising workers including those in retail, manufacturing, distribution and home delivery, who have been working around the clock since the Covid-19 outbreak.
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The shopworkers’ union called for a £10 minimum wage for all workers, minimum contracts of 16 hours per week for everyone who wants it, a ban on zero-hour contracts, and improved sick pay.
“Millions of low-paid workers have always provided essential services to help ensure the country is fed, healthy and safe and the coronavirus emergency brings that to public attention,” Usdaw general secretary Paddy Lillis said.
“Usdaw members employed in our supermarkets, distribution warehouses, food processing sites and home delivery operations welcome the weekly applause for key workers, but that respect and appreciation must not fade into the background when this national crisis passes.
“There must be lasting and fundamental changes to the way society views our lowest paid workers. We need a new deal for the workers.
“It cannot be right that key workers in supermarkets, who are keeping our communities fed, are then visiting foodbanks to feed their own families.
“Too many key workers are low-paid, with insecure hours and few employment rights. They have been undervalued for too long and deserve a new deal.”
with PA Wires
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