A recent survey has found that two-thirds of parents believe junk food advertising should be banned near schools. The poll, conducted by the Obesity Health Alliance, revealed that 66% of parents support such a measure to help tackle childhood obesity.
Strong support for advertising restrictions
The survey, which involved over 2,000 parents of children aged 4-16, showed strong backing for tighter controls on junk food marketing. Nearly three-quarters (74%) of respondents agreed that advertising unhealthy food and drink contributes to children's poor diets.
Caroline Cerny, lead of the Obesity Health Alliance, said: "Parents are clearly worried about the impact of junk food advertising on their children's health. They want to see action taken to protect children from this relentless marketing."
Current regulations and calls for change
Currently, there are restrictions on junk food advertising during children's TV programmes, but campaigners argue that more needs to be done. The survey found that 70% of parents support a ban on junk food adverts on public transport, and 65% want them banned from billboards near schools.
The government is currently consulting on further restrictions, including a proposed 9pm watershed for junk food adverts on TV and online. However, health campaigners say this does not go far enough.
Industry response
The food and advertising industries have expressed concerns about the proposed bans. They argue that advertising is only one factor in obesity and that education and physical activity are also important. A spokesperson for the Advertising Association said: "We support responsible advertising and believe that a ban is not the answer. We need a balanced approach that includes education and exercise."
Despite this, the survey indicates strong public support for stricter measures. With childhood obesity rates rising, many parents are calling for urgent action to protect their children's health.
