The following legal guidance from UGLE should clarify the dining question that many brethren have been asking:
“There is no ban on masonic halls serving food or drink. They must comply with the government guidance, of course, but Grand Lodge has not imposed any dining restrictions which go beyond that guidance. In particular, masonic halls in England, subject to any local lockdowns, may cater in a Covid-secure manner for individual masons who sit singly or in groups of no more than two households (6 people, if outside). The same applies to sit down service at a bar in a hall.
Lodges must not hold Festive Boards (in England) because they involve organised gatherings in excess of the permitted numbers for dining.”
Masonic halls have been given guidance which will assist in dealing with misconceptions on this subject, but if any brother becomes aware that they are persisting, then please let me know.
Bernie Wegerhoff
Provincial Grand Secretary