§ Lord Clement-Jonesasked Her Majesty's Government:
How they plan to increase the public's understanding of the impact of increased incidence of obesity in children on cholesterol levels, high blood pressure and diabetes in later life and of the risk factors associated with these conditions. [HL3684]
144WA
§ Lord Warner:The Government have recently conducted a major consultation exercise on improving public health. The consultation covered a range of lifestyle issues that would help to tackle childhood obesity, including diet and physical activity. Responses to the consultation exercise will inform the development of a public health White Paper, expected later this year.
We recognise the impact that obesity has on health and disease and are committed to halting the current trend. At present a variety of initiatives are in place that also raise awareness about the impact of obesity on health. These including the reform of the Welfare Food Scheme; action within schools (such as the Food in Schools Programme); the 5 A DAY Programme including the School Fruit and Vegetable Scheme and action to address sugar, fat and salt levels in the diet. working with the Food Standards Agency (FSA). The FSA, as part of its Nutrition Action Plan, also supports a wide range of initiatives aimed at improving the diet and nutrition of children.
Increasing levels of physical activity among children is also a key priority across government. Significant investment is being made to transform physical education, school sport and club links over the next three years.