The UK has a weight problem. By refusing to tackle the causes, ministers are acting as if they don’t care
Almost one in three people in England are obese. Three decades ago, it was only about one in seven. Data from Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales follows similar patterns. Expanding waistlines can shorten lives. Obesity is the second biggest preventable cause of cancer in the UK – behind smoking – and an important factor in heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Covid hits harder because obesity has become too common.
Boris Johnson’s government promised action to tackle this worsening public health situation – action that would reduce pressure on the NHS. The independent food strategy produced for ministers last year by the businessman Henry Dimbleby had a remit that went beyond the issues surrounding obesity, poverty and junk food. It included recommendations aimed at protecting nature as well as public health – particularly children’s health via the provision of many more free school meals. Mr Dimbleby’s report contained good ideas on how to address the excessive consumption of the highly processed, high-salt, high-sugar products that cause obesity. While the suggestion of a sugar and salt tax was rejected last year, a ban on junk food advertising before 9pm and limits on unhealthy promotions were agreed.
