Campaign sparks rare show of political unity

Earlier this week The Courier’s Can It campaign was taken to the Scottish Parliament – now it is making waves amid Westminster’s corridors of power. The bid to see so-called energy drinks outlawed from our secondary schools has captured the imagination and politicians of all shades are signing up.

Of course, what we really want is for schools themselves to commit to implementing a ban – and some have already done so.

Today our coverage includes expert opinion from a nutritionist who warns of the potentially dire consequences of indulging in too much caffeine.

The list of potential problems includes nervousness, nausea, irritability, insomnia, heart irregularities – not the kind of things anybody wants for their children. Quite apart from the health implications, drinking juice laced with caffeine and sugar can also cause behavioural issues.

Teachers do a fine job and deserve every assistance in their bid to maintain complete control of their classrooms. We are convinced most if not all will back our stance.

Our campaign has also highlighted the way these drinks are advertised. Their high-octane, flashy and colourful marketing campaigns, coupled with sponsorship of highprofile sporting events, can prove irresistible to impressionable young consumers.

Our message to local schools is clear – there is nothing to lose and much to gain by backing our campaign.