Commenting on the 'Choosing Health' White Paper Delivery Plan the NHF asks where's the money, expertise, long-term commitment and cross-government ownership?
09 March 2005
Paul Lincoln, chief executive of public health charity the National Heart Forum, says:
"It's good that this Delivery Plan has been published ahead of the General Election and we hope that it demonstrates sustained political commitment. We especially welcome the announcement of the National Consumer Council as a credible body to promote health by influencing public attitudes, completely independent of vested interest such as the food industry. Many public health issues can be championed as consumer and citizen rights issues, and not just on a public health ticket.
The government has outlined much firmer plans for nutrition than for physical activity. This reflects the fact that food and diet has been in the government's sights for longer and we are 20 years behind with physical activity policy, evidence and expertise?
The National Heart Forum calls for a champion or figurehead to drive physical activity plans forward and for a mechanism that allows proper engagement with academic experts and NGOs in the field.
It appears that the new money will be allocated towards the end of the three years but this money is needed now. Transparency is needed as we can't see 'what proportion' of the £1 billion over three years is going 'where'.
We congratulate the DH on the comprehensive food and health action plan which is very strategic and progressive. In contrast, we would like to see this matched by a more cogent physical activity programme. Clearly the delivery plan moves the agenda forward but there needs to be greater attention and investment in developing the promotion of physical activity. Otherwise it will remain the poor relation of the three primary risk factors for the big killers i.e. the chronic diseases.
NHF also want to see the government fund a campaign on the dangers of second-hand smoking to set the climate for a total ban on smoking in enclosed public spaces."
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