Key facts
- UK government's decade-long obesity plan warned as 'doomed to fail' by MPs.
- No clear metrics or cross-departmental plan in place for the 'moonshot ambition on obesity'.
- 30% of UK adults and nearly a third of children are overweight or obese.
- MPs called for prime ministerial leadership and a dedicated cabinet committee on obesity.
- Government cited restrictions on junk food advertising and expanded weight management support.
A cross-party committee of UK Members of Parliament has warned that the government's strategy to combat rising obesity rates over the next decade is unlikely to succeed without significant changes and direct leadership from the prime minister. The health and social care select committee's report stated that the current approach lacks clear metrics for success and a cohesive cross-departmental plan. MPs expressed doubt about the government's commitment and ability to achieve its 'moonshot ambition on obesity'.