Fat chance bans will prove popular

After targeting public smoking and cheap alcohol, it seems the Scottish Government has junk food in its sights as it bids to create a fitter, healthier Scotland. The smoking ban seemed a victory for common sense but was met with howls of derision in some quarters.

The term “nanny state”, in particular, was frequently heard. It also drove many pubs and restaurants to the wall.

Minimum unit pricing was also vociferously opposed and only forced through after a long and bitter legal battle.

Again, the arguments against its introduction centred on issues other than the fairly clear health benefits.

The same is to be expected of plans to crack down on cheap food deals.

Proposals are in their earliest stages, and a finished strategy cannot be universally popular.

Scotland’s relationship with food mirrors that with alcohol – cost and volume often beats quality.

But the progression from legislating on cigarettes and alcohol to high fat, high sugar foodstuffs is an obvious one – indeed, there is little point focusing on one and ignoring the other.

Cancer, diabetes, heart disease and other illnesses linked to poor diet are draining the NHS of precious resources.

If it is to be transformed and made fit for purpose, a root cause of its woes must be tackled.

If that cannot be done through education, legislation may be required.