Majority of restaurateurs want smoking ban

Virtually all restaurateurs support a smoking ban in their dining rooms, a survey has found.

Just two per cent of the 500 businesses questioned said they wanted diners to smoke, according to the poll carried out for the Restaurant Show and Restaurant Live. It comes as the Government considers whether to introduce a smoking ban in all restaurants, pubs, clubs and bars which serve food.

However, according to the poll, there is less unanimity on some other contentious issues in the business. Almost six out of 10 restaurateurs were against automatically charging for service and felt that diners should offer tips only if they wanted to.

A similar proportion opposed time-slot sittings in restaurants - where people are given a set time at their tables - because "diners should be left to enjoy their meals without having to check their watch".

Hundreds of suppliers, including those providing food, wine and tableware, will be at the Olympia show next week to showcase their products to the trade and public.