Govt calls for clarity on tips for those in restaurant jobs

04/03/2010 08:50:39

The government has called for more transparent information on tipping people in restaurants jobs.

According to the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, a third of diners do not know where their money will go when they leave a gratuity, despite nine in ten leaving a tip.

Lord Young, employment relations minister, said: "Businesses also have a responsibility to provide clear information to their customers.

"Our research shows this makes good business sense as consumers are more likely to revisit restaurants where tipping policies are displayed."

Celebrity chef Antony Worrall Thompson also backed the campaign, saying that the issue is a big concern for the industry.

The government urged businesses to adopt a voluntary code on tips for people in restaurant jobs, such as the British Hospitality Association's Practice on Discretionary Tips and Service Charges.

According to the code, the restaurant owner should not be involved in the distribution of cash tips, which should take place according to employees' wishes.

Restaurant jobs in the UK

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