Bangladeshi restaurateurs welcome ban on Brick Lane touts

Industry leaders have welcomed an official ban on restaurant touts operating in east London's Brick Lane, saying the move will help uphold the vibrancy and reputation of the famous "curry mile".

Tower Hamlets Council has introduced a bylaw to stop restaurateurs on Brick Lane from trying to lure customers into their restaurants, following complaints that touts were harassing and intimidating people.

Under the legislation, which came into force at the end of September, touts face fines of up to £20,000 and six months' imprisonment if found in breach of the new law.

Enam Ali, chairman of the Guild of Bangladeshi Restaurateurs, said the attempt to stamp out the "disgraceful" practice was a good move.

"Customers must be left alone to make their own decisions as to where they want to dine, and restaurant touting is a disgraceful activity that gives the whole industry a bad name," he said.