NZMA praises UK sugar tax

NZMA praises UK sugar tax

The New Zealand Medical Association (NZMA) welcomes today’s announcement by the UK Government that it plans to impose a tax on sugar-sweetened beverages. This is one of a suite of measures the NZMA recommends our Government consider to address obesity in New Zealand.

“This is an important step in protecting the health of children,” says NZMA Chair Dr Stephen Child. “We reiterate our call for the New Zealand Government to consider taking a similar step to protect the health of New Zealand children, the most vulnerable in our community.”

In its 2014 policy briefing, Tacking Obesity, the NZMA asked for priority to be given to consideration of a tax on sugar sweetened beverages.

“The UK is taking bold steps for the health of its people and we urge the New Zealand Government to follow suit.”

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