New sugar taxes could ‘help get Brits back to work’ by cutting obesity

SUGAR taxes can help get Brits back to work, a Government adviser claims.

Welfare reform guru Paul Gregg wants high-sugar products treated like ciggies and booze in a bid to cut obesity.

Stats show 9.4million working-age Brits are not in employment, with 2.8million on long-term sickness.

Professor Gregg is among experts advising ministers ahead of a “Get Britain Moving” plan due this autumn.

He warned that tackling diet-related obesity requires “far more than public health campaigns”.

He added: “Progress means engaging with food manufacturers.

“However, given past challenges in this regard, regulatory measures such as taxing high-sugar products are needed.”

Prof Gregg also calls for more protection for ill workers beyond 28 weeks’ sick pay.

He argues for a “clearer right to return to work,” similar to maternity leave, where mums can take off up to 52 weeks.

The Government said there are “plans to strengthen Statutory Sick Pay so it provides a safety net for those who need it most”.