The UK Government announced yesterday that a 50% discount will be offered on restaurants in August to help the hospitality industry recover with its newly launched “Eat Out to Help out” campaign.

The New Eat Out to Help out campaign will offer a total of 50% off at every restaurant from Monday to Wednesday in August, up to £ 10 per person. Rishi Sunak, the UK Finance Minister, said: “Meals eaten at any participating business will be 50% off up to a maximum discount of £10 per head for everyone, including children. We can all eat out to help out.” Businesses will need to register with the scheme on Gov.uk before being able to offer the discount, as well as be Food Standards Agency approved.

The VAT rate of 20% was temporarily reduced to 5% as of yesterday under a plan to help the hospitality industry develop. However, he promised support employers with a £1,000 payment for every member of staff it returns to work and retains until January 2021 to protect workers in the sector.