Harrow has been rated the fifth worst borough or district in the country for food hygiene.

According to consumer rights group Which?, 31 per cent of businesses in the borough do not have a satisfactory or higher rating.

The figures also reveal that 43 per cent of the council’s interventions into poor food hygiene standards were not successfully resolved.

Councillor Varsha Parmar, environment, crime and community safety portfolio holder, said Harrow Borough Council was working to bring up hygiene standards.

Cllr Parmar said: “I am sure these figures are concerning for the residents of Harrow, but since this report was compiled Harrow Council has worked hard to improve our inspection procedure.

“We have now employed more staff and have agreed an action plan with the Food Standards Agency. These staff are currently working with local establishments and over 85 per cent of the ones we have visited to have been found to be compliant with food hygiene law.

“Our staff are working with the remaining establishments to ensure they meet the required standards. This process is expected to take some time, but we are confident we will move up the table in the coming years.”