We urge you to address a pressing issue that affects consumers across the country – the "discretionary" service charge on restaurant bills. We believe that it is time to make a positive change in the hospitality industry, ensuring transparency, fairness, and the empowerment of customers to decide on tipping practices.

We propose the elimination of service charges on restaurant bills, allowing customers the autonomy to determine when and how much they wish to tip based on their satisfaction with the service received. This change aims to dismantle the current practice that preys on the sense of guilt and shame of British customers who may feel uncomfortable asking for the removal of the service charge.

Reasons for Change:

1. Empowerment of Customers: Customers should have the freedom to decide the amount they want to tip based on their dining experience, rather than feeling obligated to pay a fixed service charge.
2. Elimination of Exploitative Practices: "discretionary" service charges exploit the sense of guilt and shame among customers, leading to an uncomfortable dining experience. Removing this practice will create a fairer and more transparent system.
3. Fair Compensation for Employees: Any additional bonus or tip for restaurant employees should be the responsibility of the employer, not the customer. Employees deserve a fair and stable salary, and businesses should bear the responsibility of rewarding their staff for exceptional service.
4. Transparent Pricing: Customers should be charged the prices listed on the menu, without hidden fees or additional "discretionary" service charges. Transparency in pricing is essential for a fair and honest transaction between businesses and consumers.
5. Encouraging Fair Business Practices: Businesses that struggle to make ends meet should adjust their final prices accordingly, rather than relying on dubious practices like "discretionary" service charges. In a free market, businesses that cannot sustain themselves should naturally exit the market.

We believe that by making the removal of service charges a legal requirement, we can create a more just and transparent dining experience for all. Let us empower customers, eliminate exploitative practices, and ensure fair compensation for restaurant employees.

We respectfully request your support in implementing this change for the benefit of consumers and the integrity of the hospitality industry.