Table Manners?

Table manners are a thing of the past

Good table manners have become a thing of the past, as traditional sit-down meals are ditched in favour of TV dinners, it's been claimed.

A study of British diners found that a quarter of people now believe table manners are no longer important -- a far cry from 15-20 years ago.

And it's clearly true… because 44% of people say they start to eat their food before others arrive at the table, while 38% regularly answer phone calls while they are eating.

33% of those polled also admitted to not thinking twice before stealing food off other people's plate and 10% never say please or thank you during meal times.

Another one-in-ten people also claim they regularly wear headphones to dinner… well you've got to drown out the sound of The One Show somehow.

A spokesperson for Bisto, which commissioned the research, said: "It seems the traditional family meal is on a decline and is leading to a slip in good table manners."

Carrie Longton, co-founder of Mumsnet added, “Whilst it is understood that families should take the time to eat together, Mums have expressed that this is a daily struggle and have seeked advice on how to achieve these special occasions.

"Some tips Mumsnetters have provided include getting children to help with meal times such as setting the table, developing a routine and being organised and not allowing the dining table become a space for clutter."