The government has agreed a responsibility deal with over 170 companies with the aim to promote healthier living. The deal which includes the 7 main supermarkets in the UK will focus on physical activity, food, alcohol and health at work. Amongst the actions agreed is the 80% of alcoholic drinks will carry labels about the number of units they contain by 2013. At present only 15% do.
Speaking about the forthcoming deal Health Secretary Andrew Lansley said: “Industry has agreed to take action on a voluntary basis.” Commenting on the fact that a number of health charities have voiced their concern that the deal is “soft” on the drinks industry he added “The alternative is to use legislation and this means taking the EU route, which could take years. We want to do more at greater speed.”