Advertising junk food

SIR – The advertising rules for high fat, salt and sugar (HFSS) food and drink do in fact cover online platforms and social media (report, May 9).

In 2017, the Committee of Advertising Practice extended broadcast advertising restrictions to HFSS adverts in any medium, meaning that children are protected across all platforms. Britain now has some of the world’s toughest restrictions on food and drink advertising.

However, obesity among children has continued to rise. Advertising bans have little impact on the wider societal problem, but they do have unintended yet significant consequences for jobs and the economy.

It is right to take action on obesity, and the advertising industry is ready to play its part, but action must be proportionate, evidence-based and effectively targeted. Stephen Woodford

Chief Executive, Advertising Association

London SW1