'Government must take action on energy drinks if they care about kids' health'

09 February 2024 , 22:20

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There is a craze for energy drinks by children (Image: Getty Images)

Anyone who cares about the health of our children should be alarmed by the craze for energy drinks.

Studies have shown these high-caffeine and high-sugar drinks can affect pupils’ performance and behaviour in class. Research has also linked them to headaches, sleep problems, anorexia and heart issues.

Despite the risks, they are drunk by more than two-thirds of 10- to 17-year-olds and a quarter of those aged six to nine. It is hard not to conclude we are allowing a generation to be poisoned in plain sight. A Government consultation in 2019 found overwhelming support for ban on the sale of energy drinks to under-16s.

The Conservatives have had five years to introduce this but have refused to do so. Thankfully, Labour is prepared to act where the Tories have yet again failed and is expected to include the measure in its manifesto.

So out of touch

It tells you everything you need to know about Rishi Sunak that he sneaked out his tax return late on a Friday afternoon. This was deliberately designed to avoid scrutiny from the media and, as the Commons is not sitting for 10 days, from MPs.

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The PM earned more than £2.2million last year and paid just over £500,000 tax. This is an effective rate of 22.8% – only marginally more than the rate paid by a full-time worker on the average salary of £33,000.

His riches are not the problem. It’s his inability to understand the lives of the less fortunate. While Sunak benefits from a system that favours the super-rich, millions are struggling with the biggest income squeeze in 70 years. This injustice persists because we have a PM insulated from the reality of most people’s lives.

Friends in need

It’s touching that the King and Fergie are supporting each other in their illnesses. When cancer strikes it’s vitally important for everyone to know that they are not alone.

Voice of the Mirror