ACS

In a policy address to the Reform Think Tank, Health Spokesman Andrew Lansley has set out Conservative Party proposals for key aspects of public health policy. He described his approach as ‘no excuses, no nannying’ and stated that he aimed to encourage people to take responsibility for their lifestyle and health.

Mr Lansley also set out his desire to strike a ‘Responsibility Deal’ with industry to ensure that industry is part of delivering public health outcomes. The ten points he outlined are:

1. Conservative support for EU proposals for a mandatory GDA-based front of pack food labelling.

2. Industry-led reformulation initiatives and reduction of portion sizes.

3. Proportionate regulation on advertising and positive campaigns from the industry and Government to promote better diets.

4. A combined business and Government social responsibility campaign to promote healthy living, including the use of role models, community engagement and positive peer pressure.

5. A new focus on public health through Local Area Agreements, incorporating direct local business involvement in campaigns to promote exercise, community sport and healthy lifestyles.

6. A responsible drinking campaign matched by community action projects to address drug abuse, STIs and alcohol abuse, using a proportion of drinks industry advertising budgets and supported by the Government.

7. Community Alcohol Partnerships, based on the successful example from St. Neots in Cambridgeshire.

8. Clear labelling on alcoholic drinks and a push for the standardisation of labelling where necessary at a European level.

9. Incentives and a local structure, through business organisations, for SMEs to improve the health of their employees, working with business organisations, "NHS Plus" and the Fitness Industry Association.

10. An 'Investor in Health' accreditation scheme alongside 'Investors in People'.

Mr Lansley outlined these proposals as part of a vision for partnership between business, Local Government, communities and families to improve public health. ACS will be discussing these proposals with Mr Lansley as they develop.