Speak up now about new grading plans
Further to our own letter, we are writing in response to Stephen Farrant's letter regarding the new common standards (Caterer, 15 September, page 26). In it he outlines the extensive research that has been carried out, pointing out that 3,000 questionnaires were sent to hotels and guest accommodation providers (representing one-third of the total participants in VisitBritain's serviced quality assurance scheme). He omits to add that VisitBritain received back only about 800 questionnaires. This means that "the overwhelmingly positive response" was taken from only a tiny percentage - 8.8% - of the scheme's participants. Truly, democracy in action.
The most contentious aspect of the new proposals concerns the new hotel entry criteria, which seem to have been devised to eradicate small, proprietor-run establishments such as ours. The only option we are being offered is to drop "hotel" from our business name (even though we consider that this truly reflects the level of service offered to our guests).
We can foresee a situation when the new regime will cause many smaller establishments to leave the scheme. It would be ironic if proposals aimed at increasing participation had the opposite effect.
We urge all establishments which will be affected by the new common standards to write to VisitBritain with their concerns. Please don't leave it until it is too late.
Steve Boorman and Andrea Londors, Proprietors, Boswell House hotel, Chelmsford, Essex
Our seas are in good hands
In reply to JM Rowe's letter (Caterer, 8 September, page 20), I'd like to reassure him that the UK seafood industry is increasingly committed to ensuring our seas remain healthy and productive. The Sea Fish Industry Authority is a non-political organisation that is working towards the sustainable and efficient harvesting of resources used by the UK seafood industry.
Our role includes helping to protect marine ecosystems and producing best environmental practice guidelines. We carry out research and development to find out what is needed to reduce the negative environmental effects of the seafood industry. By bringing the catching sector, scientists and other stakeholders together we are also able to develop fishing gear and produce systems and management strategies that help conserve fish stocks and protect the marine environment.
The seafood industry has already initiated a number of positive schemes to promote more responsible fishing efforts. For example, an integrated fishing strategy is being developed for the Clyde fishery, involving fishermen, environmentalists, Government and others in the supply chain. This has shown us that it is important that we all work together, listening to and taking account of the views of others, including environmental scientists, conservation groups and consumers.
We are also pleased to work with the Marine Stewardship Council, but I will leave it for them to speak about their role in improving standards in fisheries management.
Phil MacMullen, head of environmental responsibility, Sea Fish Industry Authority
A drain on the local economy
People often say that what is euphemistically called the "night-time economy" in south Shoreditch, London, is beneficial to the London Borough of Hackney because it brings in jobs, revenue and nightlife.
I believe only the third benefit in this thesis is correct - it certainly brings in nightlife, but perhaps more akin to what you would find in Mogadishu, the anarchic capital of Somalia.
Perhaps people should ask themselves what exactly the night-time economy has brought to this part of London besides crime, disorder, street urination, loud noises, vandalism and drugs. It is simply a phrase coined to justify a zone where binge-drinking can flourish. If the night-time economy is such a good idea, how come the richer councils to the west have not embraced it?
Successful urban plans thrive on a much more balanced mix of amenities, rather than what is available in south Shoreditch. Pubs pay their taxes but use massive amounts of council services - like street cleaning, A&E and the police. Net net, they are a drain on the council, not a benefit.
Mark Rodino, 45/47 Hoxton Square, London