In Brief

Job losses warning The end of the two-tier workforce could signal job losses and a hike in contract bid prices within local authority catering, according to private contractors and the British Hospitality Association (BHA). Earlier this month the T&G and Unison unions won a three-year battle to end the two-tier workforce, which allowed private companies taking over public contracts to employ new workers on lower rates of pay and worse conditions. The end of the two-tier workforce could, however, spell good news for local authority caterers, which have to battle with private caterers for bids.

Save money on fuel bills The Hotel & Catering International Management Association (HCIMA) has launched a new fact file to help restaurants and catering companies save money on their fuel bills. Getting Started tells operators how to apply the Hospitable Climates energy efficiency programme (www.hospitableclimates.org.uk) in their businesses. The HCIMA claims the free Government-backed scheme can help operators cut fuel bills by reducing energy consumption by up to 40%. Contact Rosemary Morrison on 020 8661 4932, or visit http://www.hospitableclimates@hcima.co.uk.

No ban on junk food ads Media watchdog Ofcom has ruled out banning the advertising of junk food and drink on TV after research revealed it had only "a modest direct effect" on children's food choices. Ofcom concluded that school meals, lack of exercise, family eating habits and food labelling had a greater effect on childhood obesity.

McPherson moves up Head chef Andrew McPherson is leaving the kitchen at Paul Whittome's Hoste Arms hotel in Burnham Market, Norfolk, to become executive manager of the business. McPherson was originally head chef of the 36-bedroom hotel's 120-seat restaurant when Whittome bought the hotel freehold in 1989 for £425,000. McPherson will run the Hoste Arms alongside executive director Emma Tagg as soon as a new head chef is appointed.

UB to buy Jacob's United Biscuits (UB) has signed an agreement with Groupe Danone to acquire its savoury biscuits and snacks business, Jacob's Biscuit Group, subject to the approval of
the UK and Ireland competition authorities. Jacob's brands such as Cream Crackers, Thai Bites and Twiglets will be integrated with UB brands, which include McVitie's and KP.

Hospitality Action ball This year's Hospitality Action ball will take place on 3 September at the Grosvenor House hotel in London. The event, the Black & White Ball, is a major fundraiser for the industry's only dedicated charity. Tables of 10 are priced at £1,700, with individual tickets at £175. Contact Shiva Hobson on 020 8652 3094 or e-mail shiva.hobson@rbi.co.uk.