Public urged to take part in national health debate

Members of the public will be asked how they think the nation can tackle issues like obesity, smoking and sexually transmitted diseases in a consultation over the next few months.

Health Secretary John Reid announced the move today, and said it will contribute to proposals in a new White Paper to be published later this year.

He said he wanted a "wide-ranging debate with the public, the media, industry, voluntary groups and health professionals" about how the nation can deal with key health issues.

Mr Reid said: "We need to help everyone tackle these challenges to ensure we all get the long healthy lives we deserve. Successful action now will also ensure the NHS has the capacity to treat the illnesses which cannot be prevented. A healthier population could save as much as £30 billion per annum in NHS spending in 20 years time."

Overall health was improving in Britain, but there were worrying trends in preventable conditions like obesity and sexually transmitted infections and still more could be done to prevent cancer and heart disease, he said.

The Health Secretary added: "We know the medical evidence about how to improve health, but the government can't force people to be healthy. And it should not tell people how to live their lives.

"However, the government can help people to make healthy choices by providing information, encouragement and support, and by working with the right partners at the right levels."

Taking obesity in children as an example, he said the debate should explore who should take responsibility for the issue. Further details of the consultation process are expected to be announced towards the end of February.

(gmcg)