Councils push for compulsory scores on doors

London's local authorities are backing a Bill that would make the display of "scores on the doors" certificates compulsory for all restaurants and pubs.

Currently before Parliament, the Bill would force restaurateurs across the capital to advertise their hygiene scores using London's five-star rating system.

The British Hospitality Association (BHA) has expressed dismay at the proposal and will be appearing before a House of Lords committee next week in opposition to the Bill.

Deputy chief executive Martin Couchman told Caterersearch the BHA supported the Food Standards Agency's national scheme, which is currently in consultation and awards either a "pass" or "improvement required" rating.

Couchman said: "A five-star rating is inappropriate and with the system currently experiencing so many problems a compulsory scheme is unworkable."

According to the BHA examples include an inspector that examined the wrong restaurant, realised his mistake halfway through and still handed out a full report to the owner, and a restaurant that received two stars despite its report listing hygiene levels as "excellent".

The BHA is calling on operators to get in touch and share any negative experiences they have had to date with the five-star system to present as evidence next week.

"The rest of the country has a voluntary approach so why should London be different?"

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By Kerstin Kühn

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