An award-winning pizza restaurant in Richmond says it's open for business to groups from different households... if they are meeting for business purposes.

An exemption in the rules laid down by government allows up to 30 people to dine together if "the topic is business".

Pizzeria Rustica in The Quadrant is one of many restaurants across the country to capitalise on it.

"While we are all very puzzled with the Tier 2 restrictions and although social occasions need to be from a single household, BUSINESS MEETINGS are allowed provided Covid measures are in place," the restaurant wrote on social media.

"So, we wanted to let you all know, we are proceeding with business bookings from different households.

"Come and enjoy a delicious and productive lunch or dinner!"

Richmond, and the whole of London, is currently under Tier 2 restrictions, which means people cannot meet indoors with friends or family members who live in different households.

This is particularly punitive on social venues such as pubs and restaurants, but the business exemption may ensure they can still maintain a decent level of trade.

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A spokesperson for No 10 Downing Street told The Times: "We have set out this week why the exemption was introduced; to allow freelancers and others who maybe don't have access to a Covid-secure workplace to use them if required.

"But we encourage everyone to act responsibly."

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