Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:
To ask Her Majesty’s Government what steps are taken to publicise the latest food safety inspection ratings of bed and breakfast establishments, guesthouses, and hotels, to ensure that consumers are made aware of the ratings before they book accommodation at the venues.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has responsibility for the Food Hygiene Rating Scheme (FHRS). All ratings are published in an online only format on the FSA’s website. Open data is available for re-use and the ratings are published on a number of other websites. A number of smart phone apps have also been developed to provide consumers with this information. Media make good use of the open data and there are regular media stories highlighting the best and worst businesses in an area. Businesses which serve or supply food to customers are also given stickers for display at their premises where consumers can easily see them. If consumers see a bad, or no rating, they can choose an alternative with a better one.