London boroughs have called for a say in how money raised through the sugary drinks levy is spent in the capital.
In response to the government’s consultation, London Councils also said money raised in London should be spent in London. Figures show 37% of year 5 children in the capital are classed as overweight or obese.
Cllr Claire Kober, chair of London Councils, said: ‘Children in our capital are among the most obese in the country so this issue requires urgent attention.
‘Today we are calling on government to give councils the power to target money raised by the new tax and to ensure money raised by the sugar tax in London, is invested in London.’
The sugar levy will be imposed on soft drinks and is expected to raise £520m.
