What can pubs serve as a ‘substantial meal’?

When the new tiered restrictions come into force this week, many pubs and bars around the country will be wondering if they can keep their doors open.

While Tier 3 venues have effectively been forced to close, pubs in Tier 2 (which covers around 50 per cent of England) have been told they can only serve alcohol to customers alongside a ‘substantial meal’.

But what counts as substantial? Environment minister George Eustice attempted to clarify this on LBC radio this morning, when he suggested that a scotch egg would probably count, as long as it was brought over on a plate. 

But Mr Steerpike has noticed that ministers seemed to be a little confused when it comes to the guidance. With that in mind, here is Mr S’s guide to what the rules seem to be so far:

Scotch eggs

According to the environment minister, scotch eggs count as a substantial meal. Eustice told LBC this morning that: ‘I think a Scotch egg would probably count as a substantial meal if there were table service.’ But,