Britons take hardline view on health
Almost half of British adults believe there should be more tax placed on cigarettes and alcohol in order to encourage healthier lifestyles, according to a new medical survey.
It also finds a healthy appetite for more government intervention into personal health – 80 per cent of adults believed government should play a greater role in the regulation of food manufacturers.
More controversially, nearly 33 per cent believed penalty charges should be imposed on medical treatment for those who drink, smoke or are obese.
Ten per cent even said that medical treatment should be refused all together.
Bupa medical director Andrew Vallance suggested the survey showed a “change in the public mood”.
“Although individuals are ultimately responsible for health, there is also an appetite for the government, and to a certain extent employers, to provide greater support and advice to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle,” he said.
