Obesity consultation: Government all talk and no action

4.50.23pm UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 4th Feb 2004

Paul Burstow MP, Liberal Democrat Shadow Health Secretary, has slammed the Government as being all talk and no action in its approach to tackling obesity and other public health issues.

Paul Burstow's comments are in response to today's reports that the Government is asking members of the public for ideas on how to improve the nation's health.

Paul Burstow MP said:

"This is a classic case of the Government being all talk and no action.

"The Government has dithered for years on public health. There have been reports by the sack load diagnosing the problem and recommending treatment. This is another substitute for action.

"Labour has been far too complacent about the growing crisis in public health. While alcohol related diseases and sex infections have rocketed, Labour delayed their sexual health strategy for years, and have still not published their alcohol harm reduction strategy.

"It's worrying that Ministers have only just woken up to the scale of these challenges, and seem ill-equipped to do anything about them. The task for Government is not to lecture people, but it is vital that people are given the information, choices and opportunities to develop healthy habits of diet and exercise.

"The Government must tackle the root causes of disease, not just treat the symptoms."