Westminster re-confirms plans on advertising ban
THE UK Government has re-confirmed its ambitions to introduce a ban on the advertising of foods that are high in fat, sugar and salt (HFSS) by 2025.
This will see the implementation of a new 9pm watershed on TV broadcasting with plans for a total ban on online paid-for advertising of the products in a bid to improve public health, says Westminster.
Andrew Gwynne MP (pictured), under-secretary for public health and prevention, said: “More than one in five children in England are overweight or living with obesity by the time they start primary school, and this rises to more than one third by the time they leave.
“We want to tackle the problem head on and that includes implementing the restrictions on junk food advertising on TV and online without further delay. We will introduce a 9pm watershed on TV advertising, and a total ban on paid-for online advertising.
“These restrictions will help protect children from being exposed to advertising of less healthy food and drinks, which evidence shows influences their dietary preferences from a young age.”
Currently, Westminster plans to introduce these new restrictions on 1 October 2025, with plans to roll this out across the entire UK, that will prevent the advertising of products that do not fall under England’s HFSS restrictions.
The UK Government has launched a new consultation on the matter, to invite members of the public to weigh in on the new restrictions. Respondents have until 10 October when the consultation will close.
To access the consultation, click on this link.
