Pie ‘n’ Mash should be protected, says Basildon and Billericay MP

The TSG status is defined by, external the specificity and traditional element of the dish and decision makers will need to see a recipe agreed.

Almost 30 years ago there were 60 pie ‘n’ mash shops across London, but there was barely a third of that total left by 2020.

Speaking on BBC Radio 4, Mr Green said there was “a narrative that pie ‘n’ mash shops are closing and maybe pie ‘n’ mash is dying” but, he added, “the reality is it’s evolving”.

“Listed traditional food status would give a mark, a statement that despite rumours of its death, pie ‘n’ mash is very much alive and thriving,” he said.

Mr Green said its Cockney identity had spread further than the traditional areas of east and south London, marked by the spread of pie ‘n’ mash shops, from Bishop’s Stortford in Hertfordshire to Tunbridge Wells in Kent.

He said some shops were “evolving” with the times by offering vegetarian options and delivery services.