Having just been to ASDA and got a shop in, I am surprised anyone can be fat on long term benefits.

Exercise on prescription is a good initiative and I know a lot of clients with mental health problems have benefited from this, for varying reasons including social inclusion.

I understand the Government wanting to reduce the problem of obesity as obese related illnesses are costing a fortune to treat and individuals do pose some serious health risks, however what about individuals who are underweight, they are also at risk

I do not consider threats will help individuals to address obesity problems.I think the Governmen need to invest in education and support networks, they need to consider that obese individuals may have underlying psychological issues and exercise alone and reducing benefits may not be enough to address the issue.

Iceland or Aldi / Lidl.



You can pick up microwave meals for a quid. Some of them actually taste ok.



I keep a few of them in the freezer at work. Good for when working late nights.

I think the taste is monosodium glutamate rather than anything else. I must admit that on the odd occasion I have shopped in these stores we have had some good quality stuff (especially fruit and veg), but geographically ASDA is closest.

Any initiative that encourages people to lose weight should be welcomed. I was back in Hull over Christmas and the amount of porkers was shocking.

I'd agree. But this most assuredly isn't an initiative that [iencourages[/i people to lose weight, it's an initiative that threatens and bullies people into losing weight.

If it was a Labour initiative people on here would love it.

Carrot and stick.

I remember, prior to the last general election, members of the public being canvassed their opinions on various party policies. The researchers listed a number of policies and asked the public if they agreed. The researchers did not tell the public which party each policy belonged to.



The BNP fared particularly well. Needless to say, when it was revealed that people had 'liked' a BNP policy, the people withdrew their support for it.

Or, in this instance, just stick. It's just another way this government are targeting the poor who, let's face it, are not the only ones who are overweight. Are they going to tax overweight workers more heavily to fund [itheir[/i drain on NHS resources?



If they really wanted to do something about the obesity epidemic, there are far better ways than trying to render people who are already struggling (many through no fault of their own) unable to pay their bills.

Do you have a link to this study? I'd be interested to read it.

It's maybe not the policy they changed their mind on but the numpty with the swastika tattooed on his forehead banging on about 'Muslamic infidels' on Panarama.