War on obesity

OBESITY rates are increasing at such a speed that a report, published today, will recommend a tripling in the number of obesity clinics, banning fizzy drink and sweet machines in schools and a massive drive to hire more dieticians.

It will also call for an increase in VAT on takeaway meals, fast foods and other convenience foods - many of which have a lower VAT rate or a nil VAT rate.

The National Taskforce on Obesity Report is due to be published by the Taoiseach this afternoon and in a move that shows its importance, Bertie Ahern’s department will be charged with turning the recommendations into policy.