Row as SNP plans a hot chocolate tax

Critics wary of any new ‘nanny state’ obesity strategy

‘Setting an example to the rest of the world’

A HOT chocolate and milkshake tax could be introduced alongside bans on junk food deals in a clampdown on the obesity crisis.

The SNP yesterday launched ‘bold measures’ to cut the amount of fatty and sugary food and drink being bought.

These include restrictions on the promotion of junk foods, such as two-for-one deals. The Scottish Government also wants to ban junk food TV adverts before the 9pm watershed.

It will even try to extend the UK sugar tax on fizzy drinks to include powdered milk favourites such as hot chocolate and milkshakes.

But critics warned the SNP must not take a ‘nanny state’ approach over eating habits.

Launching the plans yesterday, public health minister Aileen Campbell said tough regulation is necessary because Scots have become influenced by the marketing of junk food.

Takeaways and restaurants could also be asked to provide smaller portions. There will also be an increase in the number of free weight loss clubs funded by the taxpayer.

The move was welcomed by health campaigners, but retailers said it will hit poorer Scots.

The plans are set out in consultation document A Healthier Future, Action and Ambitions on Diet, Activity and Healthy Weight. Calling the plans ‘big, brave and bold,’ Miss Campbell said: ‘Obesity significantly increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disease and depression. Simply put, it’s harming the people of Scotland.’

‘While some may say this is down to personal choice, a lot of personal choice is taken away from people because they are influenced through marketing and special offers. What is clear now is there needs to be decisive action in a range of different areas.’

The SNP can already carry out some of the plans, such as restricting cut-price promotions. In other areas, such as widening the sugar tax to include hot chocolate and milkshakes and banning junk food ads before the 9pm watershed, it will ‘push’ the UK government to act or ask for the powers to do it.

Scottish Tory public health spokesman Annie Wells said: ‘The emphasis must remain on education and personal responsibility. While the Scottish Government needs to take the lead on this, it can’t allow this to become a nanny state intervention.’

David Thomson, chief executive of Food and Drink Federation Scotland, said: ‘Restricting promotions will hit the poorest shoppers hardest – at a time when all customers are seeing increases to the cost of their weekly shop.’

But the move was welcomed by campaigners, including celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.

He said: ‘How fantastic to see Scotland make a bold, brave and trailblazing move to transform our kids’ diets. Holyrood has outlined plans for a multi-pronged obesity strategy. This is an amazing step towards making sure the healthiest choice is the easiest choice.

‘Today, Scotland has set an example to the rest of the world.’

Gregor McNie, Cancer Research UK’s senior public affairs manager in Scotland, said: ‘It’s great to see a range of bold proposals.’

A UK Department of Health spokesman said it had ‘not ruled out further action’ if the sugar tax on fizzy drinks was not successful.

He added: ‘We welcome Scotland taking steps toward its own obesity plan – it is a worldwide problem and requires real change. We are confident our world-leading plan will help change this trend.’

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