Thursday, March 12, 2009
Should Chocolate Be Taxed?
Should we tax chocolate to tackle obesity?
Dr David Walker has called for chocolate to be taxed in the same way as alcohol and cigarettes to tackle increasing levels of obesity. The Scottish GP, who will put his proposal to colleagues at an upcoming BMA conference, said chocolate used to be seen as a treat but has become a harmful addiction for some. Do you agree with his idea?
(link via guardian.co.uk)
My view is that we have enough items taxed in this country and I don't think taxing chocolate would discourage people from eating too much of it. For example, there is a huge tax on tobacco but people still smoke. And what about the people who control their cravings and don't eat too much chocolate? Why should they have to pay more for their chocolate treat just because some people can't control the urge to eat too much chocolate?
What do you think?
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No way, and I really can't see it making that much difference! xx
ReplyDeleteThat's exactly what I think. I just can't see how it would make much difference.
ReplyDeleteThis is so uncalled for. This country isn't even the highest consumer of chocolates. Chocolate doesn't = fat. :) How about all that beer and sausages?
ReplyDeleteThat's the trouble with this idea. There are a lot of unhealthy foods and ingredients that are also factors contributing to increasing levels of obesity. Where would it stop?
ReplyDeleteNo, it should not be taxed!
ReplyDeleteLet's make a future list of 'what's next to be banned, damned and downright nasty for you'. And how you will be ill, old if you don't do this, that and t'other.
ReplyDeleteWe have already had the 'bashing' (for want of a better word)of
fags,alcohol, gambling, fat or should I say 'obese' and now its 'chocolate time.'
What happened to live and let live and all things in moderation. How come all of a sudden we have many people who 'know best' and are willing to push it down everybodies throats, day in and day out.
And what makes me so cross, is that as a long time steroid user and one of the major side effects is weight gain - I am looking for a sticker for my forehead to say - 'If you want to be this wide - try steroids'. Even health professionals fall into the trap - though they are supposed to read your notes. Ah maybe we could have a campaign on 'reading notes'.
mrs K
Mrs K, I think this GP who proposed a tax on chocolate doesn't have much sympathy for his patients and people in general otherwise he wouldn't have suggested such a silly idea. I think just about everyone is angry and insulted at the idea that we should be "punished" by paying more for a treat such as chocolate. The nanny state in Britain is bad enough already!
ReplyDeleteAnd it's terrible about your personal experience - especially from health professionals who should know better. I'm so sorry you get treated that way.