Hospitality venues can take payment inside from 12 April

Hospitality venues reopening for outdoor service on 12 April will be allowed to take payment inside if needed, it has been confirmed.

Pubs and restaurants must ensure customers comply with social distancing rules. This includes steps such as having people queue at a safe distance and bringing payment machines to customers wherever possible.

Government guidance updated on 8 April states: "As a last resort, venues that serve alcohol can take payment indoors."

UKHospitality had been discussing the issue with government following concerns over a lack of clarity in the reopening guidance. Chief executive Kate Nicholls tweeted on 6 April: “Following further meetings with Govt’s today, we have had confirmation that indoor payment will now be allowed where card payment cannot be processed at table as previously required. Pragmatism!”

Outdoor areas of hospitality can reopen next Monday, including for takeaway alcohol, but with a number of restrictions.

Any premises serving alcohol must offer table service only, though customers are allowed to use indoor toilets.

Updated test and trace rules mean all customers aged 16 and over will be required to provide contact details or check-in by using the NHS app or scanning a QR code.

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