Ill-considered ‘junk food’ ad ban “has to be binned”, says IEA expert


Responding to renewed government plans to ban ‘junk food’ advertising, Christopher Snowdon, Head of Lifestyle Economics at free market think tank the Institute of Economic Affairs said: 

“It is surprising to hear that the government is pressing ahead with a ban on so-called ‘junk food’ advertising on TV and online.

“There is no satisfactory legal definition of ‘junk food’ and the proposals would ban most food companies from advertising most of their products.

“Every business from the largest food corporation to the local wedding cake maker and bakery would find their freedom to communicate with customers severely curtailed.

“Broadcasters would lose out on much needed revenue. It is a terribly ill-considered policy that no other country has introduced. It has to be binned.”

END

Notes to editors

Contact: Emily Carver, Head of Media, 07715942731

IEA spokespeople are available for comment or interview.



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