‘Fat tax’ call to tackle obesity

COUNCILS should be given extra cash from taxes on unhealthy foods to fight the nation’s increasing obesity problem.

Oldham West and Royton MP Michael Meacher says councils should get a fifth of the VAT raised on unhealthy foods.

The Labour veteran said: “This money would be ring-fenced and spent on tackling obesity and the health problems it can cause.

MPs want the extra money to be used to fund prevention programmes and control rising levels of diabetes and heart disease. The money would allow councils to expand free swimming and exercise programmes. Supporters are urging the Government to act.