A CAMPAIGN calling for an end to verbal and physical abuse against shop workers has won the support of a Gwent MP.

Islwyn's Chris Evans has backed the Freedom from Fear campaign run by the Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers, or Usdaw.

Last year a survey showed 50 per cent of shopworkers said they had been verbally abused, 29 per cent were threatened, and eight per cent had been assaulted.

Speaking at a campaign event in Parliament, the Labour MP said, in the run-up to Christmas, the busiest time of year for the retail sector, it is particularly important to make sure shop workers are treated with respect.

"Too often retail employees are confronted with violence, threats and abuse," he said.

"Nobody should have to deal with such behaviour at work.

"We must stand together and ask people to respect shopworkers, and call on the government to change the law to reflect this.

"The lack of prosecution or punishment for those who threaten or act violently toward shopworkers is a disgrace."