Former chancellor George Osborne has said he is “disappointed” the government has delayed implementing its proposed marketing ban on foods high in fat, sugar and salt.
Osborne said it was “very disappointing” that a ban on advertising HFSS food products pre-watershed has been pushed back for a second time to 2025.
The ban was originally intended to be implemented from January 2023, alongside restrictions on supermarkets offering ‘buy one, get one free’ deals on certain products.
Some restrictions on the placement of HFSS products in stores did come into effect in October 2022, with limits on multibuy promotions now scheduled to come into effect in October 2023.
Speaking to BBC Radio 4’s Today programme on Tuesday, Osborne said: “I think that’s been well-versed now for many years and I think that would be a good thing.
“And as someone who’s a member of the Conservative Party, Conservatives should not be afraid of sensible use of government to improve people’s health because by the way that also reduces dependency on public services down the road.”
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: “The government takes tackling obesity seriously. Having a fit and healthy population is essential for a thriving economy and we will continue to work closely with industry to make it easier for people to make healthier choices.
“We remain committed to introducing restrictions banning adverts on TV for foods and drinks high in fat, salt, or sugar before 9pm, as well as paid-for adverts online.”
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