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Critics: UK plan to cut child obesity lacks muscle

The amount of sugar contained in drinks is on display at a shelf in a supermarket in London, Thursday, Aug. 18, 2016. Britain has unveiled a plan to battle rising child obesity by urging food manufacturers to cut down on sugar and getting primary schools to make pupils do more exercise. But health campaigners have slammed the government for failing to restrict junk food advertising aimed at children. ??(AP Photo/Frank Augstein)
The amount of sugar contained in drinks is on display at a shelf in a supermarket in London, Thursday, Aug. 18, 2016. Britain has unveiled a plan to battle rising child obesity by urging food manufacturers to cut down on sugar and getting primary schools to make pupils do more exercise. But health campaigners have slammed the government for failing to restrict junk food advertising aimed at children. ??(AP Photo/Frank Augstein)

By Associated Press 2 min read

LONDON (AP) – Britain unveiled a plan Thursday to battle rising child obesity by taxing sodas, urging food manufacturers to cut down on sugar and getting schoolchildren to exercise more.

But health campaigners slammed the government for failing to restrict junk food advertising aimed at children.

The British population is one of the fattest in Western Europe. According to Public Health England, almost 62 percent of adults and 31 percent of children aged 2 to 15 are overweight or obese.

The government wants manufacturers to cut the amount of sugar in cereals, yoghurts, candy, breads and desserts by 20 percent by 2020. The target is voluntary, but the government said it will consider “alternative levers” if it isn’t met.

Primary schools are being asked to help pupils get at least 60 minutes of exercise a day – 30 minutes in gym class or active play, and 30 minutes outside school.