Over to you

Are consumers right to expect free tap water in restaurants?

Absolutely. It costs the owner nothing and, quite frankly, it is vital to people's health. Refusing to serve free tap water is a quick way to alienate the customer.

Alison Robinson, managing director, Artizian

If someone wants a glass of water, then it's their fundamental right to have one. In the USA you're offered water with every meal, even with breakfast. It seems there's someone employed just to go round with a jug of water filling up people's glasses. We offer mineral water but will willingly give out tap water.

Craig Markham, director of marketing, Firmdale Hotels

Of course they are - otherwise it's just mercenary. OK, we have to pay for it, but we have to pay for a lot of things that you can't charge people for. If you want to attract people, you don't charge them for using the toilet - and that uses water.

Michael Bedford, chef-proprietor, the Trouble House, Gloucestershire

Yes, they are. We always make sure there is a supply of tap and bottled water available to customers at our restaurants.

Nick Leveton, group administration manager, Giardino Group