Plans to stamp out fake reviews welcomed by Manchester's food and drink operators

Manchester’s food and drink operators have welcomed government plans to stamp out fake reviews. The proposals, which were announced yesterday, will make it illegal to pay someone to write, commission or host fake reviews, so consumers are not cheated by bogus ratings.

As part of the reforms, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) will be given enhanced powers to tackle rip-offs and bad business practices. Other measures announced by the government include clearer rules for businesses to make it easier for consumers to opt out of subscriptions.

The watchdog will be able to fine firms 10 percent of their global turnover for mistreating customers, while websites hosting consumer reviews will also have to show they have taken reasonable steps to ensure that reviews are genuine.

Speaking yesterday, Consumer Minister Paul Scully said: “No longer will you visit a 5 star-reviewed restaurant only to find a burnt lasagne or get caught in a subscription in which there’s no end in sight. Consumers deserve better and the majority of businesses out there doing the right thing deserve better protection from rogue traders undermining them.”

Responding to the news, Jennifer Hughes, restaurant partner at Peruvian-inspired eatery Peru Perdu in the city centre, said the new reforms could be positive for both hospitality and diners. Speaking to the M.E.N, she said: “Personally, I will never understand why some restaurants use fake positive reviews - it's totally counterproductive and can be very obvious.

“Reviews are not only meant to guide the consumer in finding a great restaurant, but they should also assist the business itself with some constructive feedback. This goes with both positive and negative reviews.

“If a restaurant