The trade body UK Hospitality has again underpinned its belief that a “unified” approach to reopening restaurants after lockdown restrictions are lifted.

After the Welsh government put forward its criteria, and Nicola Sturgeon, first minister of Scotland, outlined what a phased lifting could look like, UK Hospitality warned that a confused message could damage the industry yet further.

UKHospitality chief executive Kate Nicholls said: “It is positive to see the Welsh government putting some thought to how businesses might begin to open, but we need much more detail on the what the Welsh government’s seven tests mean practically speaking for businesses.

“There must be a plan in place well ahead of any eventual reopening of businesses. The focus of the plan must be how we can open safely and viably, rather than when. We do not want to rush the process only to find out that businesses cannot operate and that customers and team members are at risk.

“There also needs to be a unified approach to this across the UK. Different countries moving at different speeds, potentially measuring against different criteria, sends a confused message to businesses and customers.

“Businesses will also need continued support after reopening commences. UKHospitality is working hard to ensure businesses and staff are ready and safe to reopen only when it is appropriate, and we are happy to liaise with the Welsh and UK governments to support.”