David, who is director of food for corporate caterer Charlton House, said: “We want to help stave off cod depletion. We know taking cod off our menus will not greatly change the stock levels but hopefully, other larger companies may follow suit, which would make a big difference to the greater picture”.

Charlton House launched its ‘Save Our Cod’ campaign at the Chivas Brothers whisky company in Chancellors Road, Hammersmith on March 1st.

According to the World Wildlife Fund, the world’s cod stocks are in dramatic decline.

The WWF charity said the North Sea fishery gave around 180,000 tons of cod in 1987. The number dropped to about 40,000 in 2002.

Cod has now been replaced by hake, haddock, pollack and plaice throughout Charlton House staff restaurants nationwide.

David Cavalier said: “Our customers are actually enjoying the greater variety of fish available, and many of our restaurants are presenting simple, grilled fish along with traditional battered fish. We have received very positive feedback from all”.

The Westminster Times March 05