CORONAVIRUS

Ministers make a meal out of deciding if Scotch eggs are substantial

Scotch eggs “probably count” as a substantial meal, although Michael Gove thought they were more of a starter
Scotch eggs “probably count” as a substantial meal, although Michael Gove thought they were more of a starter
ALAMY

Ministers have scrambled the government’s message on Scotch eggs with confusing messages on whether they count as a “substantial meal” for would-be drinkers in England.

Michael Gove became the second cabinet member to wade into the debate yesterday by claiming that Scotch eggs were a starter before backtracking and saying they were definitely a substantial meal.

The controversy began on Monday when George Eustice, the environment, food and rural affairs secretary, said that the eggs “probably would count” as a meal under new coronavirus rules in England.

Pubs in Tier 2 areas can reopen today only if they serve customers a “table meal” with their drinks. Downing Street has refused to clarify the term but insisted that it was well understood in the hospitality industry