Next step for sugar tax and smoking ban

  A ban on smoking in cars when children are present and a consultation on a sugary drinks tax in Northern Ireland have moved a step closer. The BMA has welcomed the progress that came with an Assembly vote in favour of two amendments to the Health (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill. Commenting on the amendment that would lead to a consultation on a sugar tax levy, BMA NI public health forum chair Paul Darragh said: ‘This is good news as doctors are increasingly concerned about the impact of poor diet on patients' health — which is not only a significant cause of ill health and premature death, but a considerable drain on NHS resources.’ The BMA’s Food for Thought report, which was published last year, recommends a 20 per cent tax on sugary drinks to fund the subsidised sale of fruit and vegetables. It is estimated that such a tax could reduce the incidence of obesity in the UK by about 180,000.   Improved health Dr Darragh said: ‘We know from experiences in other countries that taxation on unhealthy food and drinks can improve health outcomes, and the strongest evidence of effectiveness is for a tax on sugar-sweetened beverages.’ Commenting on an amendment in favour of a ban on smoking in cars where children are present, Dr Darragh said: ‘The BMA would go further and recommend that further consideration be given to extending a ban on smoking in all private motor vehicles regardless of the age of the driver and passengers as t...
Source: BMA News - Category: UK Health Source Type: news