Public health consultation

A major public consultation to develop a White Paper on improving the nation’s health is being launched.

The Department of Health wants contributions from the public, media, industry, voluntary groups and health professionals on how to tackle issues such as obesity, smoking and sexually-transmitted diseases.

Health secretary John Reid said: “We need a big debate about the relative roles of Government, individuals and industries in tackling this vital challenge.

“We need to find the right balance, rejecting both the nanny state and the Pontius Pilate state which washes its hands of its citizens’ health.”

The department sees its role as helping people to make healthy choices by providing information and support. But the role of food retailers and advertisers in offering and promoting healthy options should be examined.

“We need to help everyone tackle these challenges to ensure we all get the long healthy lives we deserve,” said Mr Reid.

“Successful action now will also ensure the NHS has the capacity to treat the illnesses which cannot be prevented. A healthier population could save as much as £30 billion per annum in NHS spending in 20 years time.”

Details on how to take part in the consultation process will be made available towards the end of February.

The results from the consultation will be used to help frame a White Paper which will be published later in 2004.

Source : NHS | More Information