OBESE CHILDREN FIRST GENERATION SET TO HAVE …

OBESE CHILDREN FIRST GENERATION SET TO HAVE LOWER LIFE EXPECTANCY THAN PARENTS
Green Minister’s Push for Stronger Advertising Regulations Welcomed
Paul ‘Basil’ O’Halloran MP
Greens Health spokesperson

The Tasmanian Greens today welcomed the initiative by Greens Consumer Protection Minister, Nick McKim, asking the Office of Consumer Affairs and Fair Trading to investigate options for the regulation of junk food advertising in Tasmania, saying that it has long been Greens policy to tackle junk food advertising, especially that which targets children.

Greens Health spokesperson Paul ‘Basil’ O’Halloran MP said for far too long restrictions relating to junk food advertising have been lax, which is highlighted in recent research that shows over half of Tasmanian students had tried new food or drink products as a result of advertising.

“Minister McKim’s timely initiative is positive for Tasmania’s young people, and will help improve the overall health of Tasmanians as the message passes to current and future generations,” Mr O’Halloran said.

“Minimal restrictions on advertising have gone on for far too long, and are perceived as a farce by many experts in this field.”

“Research conducted by the Obesity Policy Coalition and their recent call to action, “Protecting Children from Unhealthy Food Advertising and Promotion” draws a clear cause and effect between advertising tactics and unhealthy eating habits in children.”

“The Greens both at the state and national level have campaigned for change, and now the actions taken by Greens Minister Nick McKim to identify workable options to protect our children means Tasmania is now leading the way on this matter.”

“Current levels of obesity are set to have Tasmanian children being the first generation to have a lower life expectancy than their parents.”

“By removing junk food advertising during high-viewing time slots for children, it is expected that exposure can be reduced by up to 80 per cent, which will significantly curb the growing levels of obesity in Tasmania’s youth.”

“The Greens look forward to the results of the Consumer Affairs and Fair Trading investigation,” Mr O’Halloran said.
Paul ‘Basil’ O’Halloran MP, Greens Health spokesperson