§ 12. Mr. ThurnhamTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement about his policy towards the sale of soft drinks containing a high level of caffeine.
§ Mr. Donald ThompsonDraft proposals for revised soft drinks regulations issued for public consultation on 18 May include a provision to limit the caffeine content of soft drinks to 125 mg/litre. Government policy will not be finalised until all comments have been considered.
§ Mr. ThurnhamDoes my hon. Friend agree that manufacturers should not encourage children to consume drinks with excessive levels of stimulants? When he decides this matter, will he treat the protection of children as a priority?
§ Mr. ThompsonWhen we decide any matters of additives in food or drink, including caffeine, the protection of children is paramount.
§ Mr. Campbell-SavoursIn the light of the work done by Dr. Wurtman in America and others on the difficulties that arise from the use of aspartame, otherwise known as Canderel or Nutrasweet, in soft drinks, will the Government now review approval that they gave to Searle, the manufacturers, some four years ago?
§ Mr. ThompsonWe constantly review the approvals that we have given. At present we have no intention of reviewing that product.