Councillor deems lax sugar tax as a 'lost opportunity to improve health'

A COUNCILLOR horrified at children's dental decay will urge a ban on high sugar foods and drinks.

Oldham Council will vote on a motion encouraging a campaign to ban all high sugar foods and drinks available in council-run buildings.

It comes as Oldham holds the worst record for children's dental decay in Greater Manchester.

Chair of the health and wellbeing board Councillor Susan Dearden said: "I have a responsibility to raise concerns about health issues and campaign to improve the health and well-being of Oldhamers.

"I am really worried about our children's health, particularly in relation to obesity and oral health.

"I am horrified that Oldham has the worst record for children's dental decay in Greater Manchester.

"I do sympathise with parents because it needs energy, determination and health awareness to resist demanding toddlers and grumpy teenagers.

"I'm no role model ­- I do prefer a chocolate biscuit to an apple ­- but the bottom line is that too much sugar is bad for children.

"I'm angry that the government has missed the opportunity to give us a lead and to make it easier by bringing in laws to restrict advertising and reduce sugar levels.

"This would help parents to manage and change children's eating habits. We owe our children a healthier future."

Disappointment

Under the government's obesity strategy, published last month, the sugar tax will not be introduced for two years.

Councillor Dearden said: "We note with great disappointment this government's long-awaited strategy, published during parliamentary recess, and the lost opportunity to improve health.

"The government proposals rely on voluntary action by the food and drink industry and contain no restrictions on junk food marketing and advertising."

Councillors will vote for or against a campaign to ban all high sugar foods and drinks and to encourage schools, organisations and employers to do likewise.

A vote in favour would see the council continue to promote healthy lifestyles through campaigns such as Get Oldham Growing and Feeding Ambition.