BSPD writes to new Secretary of State for Health & Social Care highlighting negative impact of sugar on children’s health, whilst urging against conflict-of-interest
NewsPosted by: Dental Design 14th November 2023
At the start of Sugar Awareness Week (13–19 November 2023)[1], BSPD’s President, Professor Paula Waterhouse wrote to the new Secretary of State for Health & Social care to congratulate her on the new position, but also asking for the Government’s dental recovery plan. Specifically, BSPD would like to know that Rt. Hon. Victoria Atkins MP will support measures to reduce the sugar content in drinks and food marketed at children. The Society also asked for reassurance that despite recent media reports about a possible conflict-of-interest (The Times 13.11.23 “Victoria Atkins: meet the new health secretary and her sugar boss husband”), that there is no risk of such a conflict.
Professor Paula Waterhouse, BSPD President said: “We remain hopeful that the new Secretary of State for Health & Social Care will act on what is best for children’s health. In April 2023, the Conservative Party promised to share a dental recovery plan and we had hoped that there would be an announcement at the recent conference. However, our members still wait to hear what is planned to support children and young people’s oral health both in the immediate future – and long-term.
In the run-up to a potential general election we need clarity around the plans for oral health from all parties. What we need to hear from Victoria Atkins MP, as a matter of urgency, is a serious plan that demands measurable outcomes, to grip the immediate crisis and set NHS dentistry on the path to recovery in the long-term.”
Please see the full press release (attached). Let me know if you would like any further information or quotes.
Reference:
[1] Sugar Awareness Week 13-19 November 2023
