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Sugar tax could slash weight of hundreds

New tax tipped to cut obesity numbers

The Department of Health and Social Care believes a proposed tax on soft drinks could drastically cut obesity, diabetes and tooth decay rates in the Island.

A report released in the UK last week predicted a similar levy, which is being introduced there in 2018, would prevent over 140,000 people becoming seriously overweight.

Tynwald has indicated it's likely to follow the UK's line, and introduce a future charge on drinks with high amounts of sugar.

DHSC Chief Executive Dr Malcolm Couch says it would likely have an impact on health here.

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