Too sweet to resist

THE article titled “Sugar tax mooted to reduce obesity” (Cape Times, August 25) refers.

Every year, year in and year out, the government raises the tax on cigarettes and alcoholic drinks.

Although my friends who drink and smoke loudly moan and groan about this, I have never observed any of them either giving up or cutting back on their smokes and drinks.

Although the annual raising of taxes on these items has proven to be a very successful means of garnering extra income for the state, it is questionable whether this action has had any notable effect on the number of drinkers and smokers.

The government has said that the sugar tax is aimed at reducing a disease epidemic (obesity) and oral health problems.

I have canvassed a number of my “sweet tooth” friends and family, who have all indicated that they might have to cut back on other things, but they will not forgo their sugary cool-drinks, sweets and chocolates.

I do not think that these taxes will have the desired effect and just like the drinkers and smokers, it will be business as usual for us chocoholics. Russell Ongley Great Brak River