Sugar tax 'last option' on obesity

The government said there is evidence to suggest increasing the cost of sugar sweetened drinks helps control obesity.

A sugar tax has been proposed for Guernsey to tackle a "large-scale obesity problem".

The move has been outlined as part of a new draft seven-year Healthy Weight Strategy.

The States health department said it wants a working party to investigate the potential of such a tax, but it would be a "last-stop option".

More than half of adults are classed as overweight or obese, according to States figures.

A third of nine and ten year olds also fall into that category.

The new strategy outlines how the government intends to cut down on the number of overweight and obese islanders through promoting healthy eating and exercise.

The health and social services department (HSSD) said it wants to work with other States departments, including Environment and the new Committee for Education, Sport and Culture, to promote more physical activity.

It said there is evidence to suggest that increasing the cost of sugar sweetened drinks helps control levels of obesity.