HOSPITALITY and retail workers bearing the brunt of the Christmas rush need fair pay and conditions, Scottish Green co-leader Lorna Slater has insisted.

She made the remarks as thousands of workers in Scotland’s bars, restaurants and shops — sectors beset with endemic low pay — endure their busiest time of the year.

Calling for action to boost pay and conditions in the sector, Ms Slater said: “Our shops, bars, and restaurants will be rammed with rushes of customers during this holiday period, with last-minute shopping, work nights out and family meals.