It’s voluntary in England, but mandatory in Wales and Northern Ireland, which seems odd. Why not the same for all U.K. countries?
In NYC the inspector places the placard with the letter grade for the establishment. Agree that its odd that places in England can choose whether to display.
Story from the NYT about the inspection process.
Food hygiene control is a matter for the devolved administrations for Northern Ireland, Wales and Scotland. England doesnt have a devolved assembly, so is governed by the UK Parliament. FWIW, it isnt mandatory in Scotland. I suppose it’s similar to the fact that US states can have different laws about a whole range of issues.
FWIW, I think it should be mandatory to display the sticker. I never check the “scores on the doors” website before visiting a restaurant I really want to visit. Yes, it’s risky but, otherwise, I’d always leave myself wondering if I’d missed out. If I like it and think I might go back, then I’ll check the ratings and be guided by them as to whether I really should return. Of course, that’s if the place has passed “toilet test” - if places on view to customers, like the toilets, are unhygienic, then goodness knows what it’s like in the out of sight places - like the kitchen.
