£300 fines for breaching new food delivery rules

The Government has published the Food Delivery Service Regulations which establishes a formal framework to ensure high standards of service and accountability.

The Transport Commission is appointed as the Food Delivery Licensing Authority and will oversee all matters relating to the Food Delivery Service Act regulations.

Permit applications must include contact details and employment paperwork. All permits will be assigned a unique driver number and will remain valid until the 1st April following their date of issue.

The Regulations also place specific requirements on food delivery businesses. Every business must provide its delivery personnel with branded uniforms and , where applicable, branded delivery boxes. Businesses must maintain a register of all delivery employees.

While on duty, uniforms must be worn which clearly display the unique driver number and permits. Failure to comply will result in a fixed penalty notice of £300. Police and specifically appointed officials have the power to stop vehicles and inspect business registers to ensure compliance.

All current cards will be extended to 1st September. Any permits required before then can be obtained from the Customer Care Hub.

The Minister for the Environment and Transport, John Cortes, said the new system ensures drivers are properly identified and that businesses take responsibility for their staff.