Penalties rise for infested eateries

Mouse droppings on the floor

Tougher penalties on restaurants, cafes and takeaways infested with pests are good news for diners, according to a national trade body.

Business owners found guilty of food safety offences will face bigger fines and even jail following the introduction of new sentencing guidelines covering several food safety and hygiene offences.

The British Pest Control Association (BPCA) hopes the move will ensure every catering business will take hygiene seriously.

The guidelines direct courts to impose fines based on business turnover, its blameworthiness and the extent of the harm. Very small businesses could be fined thousands of pounds, rather than hundreds.