HL Deb 25 July 1994 vol 557 c65WA
Lord Wade of Chorlton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they consider that raised sodium intake in humans leads to raised blood pressure; which leading United Kingdom, United States and European scientists support their view; and which oppose their view; and

Whether they support the setting of dietary targets for sodium intake in humans; which leading United Kingdom, United States and European scientists support their position; and which oppose their position.

Baroness Cumberlege

The Government did not set a specific target for sodium intake in the White PaperThe Health of the Nation. It states that "excessive consumption of alcohol, and of sodium (mainly as sodium chloride—common salt) contribute to raised blood pressure". The Government are not aware of any leading scientists in the United States, the United Kingdom or other parts of Europe who oppose this view.