A fat tax is a double whammy for the poor – it will do little to prevent obesity in those on lower incomes, and will hurt them financially

By 2030, it is estimated that obesity could cost the UK economy up to £2 billion. While some have suggested a ‘fat tax’ as a solution to the problems of obesity, Richard Tiffin and Matthew Salois argues that whilst such a tax will tend to be focused on those with the worst diets – these people also tend to be the poor. In reality, it would do little to change their dietary habits, and will end up costing them financially.