Commenting on the the government’s introduction of the ‘junk food’ advertisment ban announced today, Christopher Snowdon, Head of Lifestyle Economics at free market think tank the Institute of Economic Affairs, said:

“The government has never had a proper definition of ‘junk food’ because none exists. To avoid the public backlash that would come from banning wedding cake makers and local bakeries from advertising, it has created a carve-out for smaller businesses, but this only underlines to the absurdity.

“Under the new plans, an apple pie can be advertised by a café but not by the McDonalds next door. The local takeaway can advertise kebabs and pizzas but Asda cannot advertise cheese.

“With its new exemptions, the government has acknowledged that banning adverts for normal, everyday food products would stifle competition, hurt businesses and be bad for consumers. It should now throw in the towel and accept that advertising jam, sandwiches and olive oil should not be a criminal act under any circumstance, regardless of how many people the company employs.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors

Contact: Emily Carver, Head of Media, 07715941731

IEA spokespeople are available for interview or further comment.