Tackling obesity

Obesity needs tackling. I believe it is better tackled by a concerted partnership between campaigners, industry and government rather than by regulation and taxes.

People should be allowed to choose for themselves, but should be informed and encouraged about sensible choices. Those choices are not only about diet, but also about lifestyle – including food preparation and leisure as well as exercise.

Regulation and taxes should be consistent with these social aims. Regulation should ensure quality, safety and clarity. Healthy choices should be taxed less than unhealthy ones. I disagree that good diets are either unaffordable or unappetising.

I am cynical about some of the new taxes being implemented in Europe, as I believe they will change behaviour in unintended ways to avoid them.