Whilst we have very quickly become familiar with the “rule of six”, regulations come in to force today placing a further legal obligation on businesses in England that serve food for consumption on the premises to ensure that, save for in limited exceptions, bookings of more than six people are not accepted.
From Friday 18 September you MUST take all reasonable measures to ensure that:
No bookings for a table of more than six people are accepted unless all the people in the gathering are from the same household, or are members of two households which are linked households in relation to each other. In these circumstances it will be up to the customer to satisfy you that this exemption applies.
Where groups of more than six are allowed then you should keep and retain a record of this you must also take all reasonable steps to ensure that:
Breach of the regulations may result in prosecution or a fine (£1000 for the first fine rising to £2000 on a second and £4000 for a third offence)
These regulations remain in force until 17 September 2021 and will be reviewed before the 18 March 2021
You will need to take the following steps:
This publication is intended for general guidance and represents our understanding of the relevant law and practice as at 15 September 2020. Specific advice should be sought for specific cases. For more information see our terms & conditions.
Helping you navigate your business through the risks and opportunities that Brexit will bring.
Read moreThe way people shop is constantly evolving, from the growth of online and the changing use of stores...
Read moreThe widespread disruption and closure of businesses caused by the Covid-19 pandemic and the subsequent national and local lockdowns has brought into sharp focus the question of available insurance cover for losses under...
Read moreWatch our video series for information on the legal issues that are affecting the real estate sector. Each...
Read moreThe pandemic has had a deep and long-lasting effect on the leisure, food & drink sector, forcing operators to embrace new ways of attracting and servicing customers.
Read moreThe pandemic has forced the majority of the workforce into a world of remote working. As a result, our cities are evolving.
Read moreOur countdown to Brexit and beyond podcast series looks at the impact for businesses on both sides of the pond of any free trade agreement between the UK and Europe and the UK and the US. This
Read moreThere's a growing demand for retailers to do more to attract the Purple Pound – the collective spending power of disabled shoppers, estimated to be worth around £274bn. We look at the opportunities, the legal issues and...
Read moreGreen finance is gaining speed, driven by global climate change pressures and the recognition of the vital role which sustainability plays in a resilient financial services sector.
Read moreKeep on top of the employment law issues that matter most to you and your business with our new podcast.
Read more