The government’s ‘ground-breaking’ sugar tax comes into force today across the UK.
From April 6 manufacturers will have to pay a levy on any high-sugar drinks they sell.
Many of the UK’s drinks makers have already reduced sugar content in many of their products to avoid increased costs. Ministers and campaigners are now seeing this as a sign of success. Others say it’s too early to judge the impact.
Fanta, Ribena and Lucozade are some of the brands who recently announced they have cut the sugar content of drinks – but Coca-Cola has not.
The tax was implemented after it was revealed all age groups are consuming too much sugar – with teenagers the worst offenders.
Research shows they get a quarter of their sugar intake from soft drinks.
Public Health Minister Steve Brine told the BBC: “Our teenagers consume nearly a bathtub of sugary drinks each year on average, fuelling a worrying obesity trend.
“The levy is a ground-breaking policy that will help to reduce sugar intake.”
But will the new tax have an impact? We got out and about in Gedling borough to find out what you think.
Barbara Watt is a retired office worker from Arnold. She thought the tax would have little impact.
“I think those that make the drinks will just pit up the prices and those addicted to a sugar hit will carry on paying. They tax fags, but people don’t stop,” she said.
Ron Wilson, from Colwick, applauded the move.
He said: “Good. My granddaughter has way too much sugar and it sickens me. I’m glad they are doing something about it and forcing drinks makers to cut down.
Lisa Matthews works at a chemist in Bestwood. She thought it was about time something was done.
“I’m glad it’s having an effect already if some drinks have already cut sugar down. People are getting a lot fatter and this is putting a strain on our NHS. Something has to be done.
Steve Adams, from Netherfield, thought it was another example of the UK’s move to becoming a complete ‘nanny state’.
He said: “Can’t people look after themselves? They get fat and the government has to step in and stop them eating and drinking rubbish. How thick are these people? Unless a glass of coke is practically removed from their hands they can’t stop. We’re a country of drug addicts really.”
He added that he wanted any money raised to go directly into the NHS.
Steve said: “We have to have evidence this money is going into the NHS. If manufacturers are being taxed and extra revenue is coming in, I don’t want to see it wasted on some transport project in London. We all have to benefit and it should improve our hospitals or hie more GPs.”
- What do you think about the sugar tax? Will it be a success? Have your say in the comments section below.
