Responding to the report by the Faculty of Dental Surgery at the
Royal College of Surgeons which calls for sugar free schools as a
measure to tackle child tooth decay in England, Liberal Democrat
Health Spokesperson Judith Jolly said:
"It is upsetting to read that 23% of five year olds alone have
evidence of tooth decay. Having too much sugar in the diet not
only leads to tooth decay, but health problems stemming from
obesity such as worse mental health and an increased risk of
cancer.
"The dental problems are preventable and yet the Tories are
failing to prevent them. Instead has suggested reversing the
sugar tax, whilst those producing this report highlight the sugar
tax as a key recommendation in preventing tooth decay in
children.
"Liberal Democrats demand better. In July, Liberal Democrat MP
introduced a Bill that would
restrict the serving of foods high in fat, salt or sugar in
schools and to require all school meals to be free of added sugar
by 2022.
"Much more needs to be done to improve the health of children
across the UK. It is the responsibility of grown-ups, not
children, to give everyone the healthiest start in life.
"With a bit more encouragement and support, it would not be
difficult for schools to change out fizzy drinks for water, or
bananas instead of biscuits. With healthier diets, exam results
will improve, tooth decay will decline and slowly but surely, we
will secure a healthier future for our entire community."
ENDS
Notes to editors:
Liberal Democrat MP introduced the School Food Bill
on 22 July 2019, A Bill to amend the Requirements for School Food
Regulations 2014 to further restrict the serving of foods high in
fat, salt or sugar in schools and to require all school meals to
be free of added sugar by 2022; to require all publicly-funded
schools to adhere to those standards; and for connected purposes.
