Coronavirus: Raab stokes confusion over whether fast-food chains and coffee shops subject to ‘table-service only’ restrictions

Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Dominic Raab has stoked confusion for businesses after suggesting new coronavirus rules means customers would need to order food from their table in fast-food chains such as McDonalds and coffee shops in England. Pressed on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme on whether customers could enter establishments such as McDonalds, or any coffee, make an order then sit down at a table, Mr Raab said: “In all of the restaurants and hospitality you can go in and order from the tables. That’s the risk we’re mitigating against.” However, guidance issued by the government on Tuesday evening suggested the table-service only policy would only apply to venues selling alcohol – appearing to contradict Mr Raab’s comments. “This does not cover where food or drink is purchased to eat or drink off site, when it can be offered and served at a counter/bar.” Speaking on Wednesday, the foreign secretary also urged the public to play “by the rules” outlined by Mr Johnson in an address to the nation to avoid restrictions similar to the March lockdown being imposed once again.