Restricting junk food offers has support

The majority of Scots support restrictions on junk food multi-buy offers in order to cut obesity rates, according to a cancer charity.

The Scottish Government aims to restrict price promotions on foods that are high in fat, sugar and salt and a Cancer Research UK poll found 62% of people back the move.

The survey also found twothirds of Scots are worried about their weight or the weight of a family member, while 82% believe multi-buy deals encourage people to buy unhealthy food.

The charity said obesity is the second biggest preventable cause of cancer after smoking and supports strong action.

Restrictions are part of the government’s diet and obesity strategy to help people lose weight.

A consultation on the plans, which would also see the broadcast of TV adverts for unhealthy food banned before the 9pm watershed, ends on Wednesday with a Holyrood debate the following day.

Professor Linda Bauld, Cancer Research UK’S cancer prevention expert, said: “This survey shows that obesity is a worry for all of us – and with good reason. Obesity is linked to 13 different types of cancer.

“When we stock our cupboards with cheap chocolate, crisps and biscuits, we are getting far more than we bargained for.”

Cancer Research UK surveyed more than 1,000 Scots on the issue last month.

Thursday’s debate has been backed by Richard Lochhead MSP.

“As World Cancer Day approaches, we need to see everyone unite behind these ambitious and world-leading plans,” he said.

“This is Scotland’s chance to tip the scales in favour of a healthier future.”

Picture: PA. Two-thirds of Scots are worried about their weight or the weight of a family member.