Responding to the sugar tax and other changes announced in the budget, David Buck, Senior Fellow at The King’s Fund, said: ‘Childhood obesity is one of the most significant public health challenges facing the UK

So the Chancellor’s surprise tax on sugary drinks will provide welcome revenue for funding schools sports and other activities. The levy could be a helpful addition to the UK’s approach to addressing obesity, but details need to be ironed out. To have most impact, it will need to be at a sufficient level to change behaviour, be well designed and targeted, and be part of a broader strategy on obesity.

‘The Chancellor also announced the abolition of business rates for small businesses, which could result in a £7 billion loss in revenues, a third of business rate revenues. Public health spending is going to fall by at least £600 million in real terms by 2020/21, on top of £200 million cuts this year, so it is essential that this does not result in further cuts to public health budgets in future.’

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The King's Fund is an independent charity working to improve health and care in England. We help to shape policy and practice through research and analysis; develop individuals, teams and organisations; promote understanding of the health and social care system; and bring people together to learn, share knowledge and debate. Our vision is that the best possible care is available to all.