National Assembly to debate the health concerns of promoting caffeine-loaded drinks to children and young people
13 May 2013
The National Assembly for Wales will, on Wednesday 15 May, discuss the health concerns associated with promoting caffeine-loaded energy drinks to children and young people.
The Individual Members Debate, put forward by Jenny Rathbone AM, Member for Cardiff Central, proposes that the Assembly:
Notes that the promotion of caffeine-loaded energy drinks to children and young people is a significant public health concern; and
Calls on the Welsh Government to take action to raise awareness of the health concerns surrounding caffeine-loaded energy drinks.
“Research here and in Europe confirm that this has become a major problem,” said Jenny Rathbone AM.
“A significant minority of adolescents are hooked on this stuff, drinking it on the way to school and during their lunch break.
“People who work with children say it can have a major impact on young people’s behaviour.
“The long term health effects need further research, but worryingly caffeine is thought to affect iron and calcium absorbtion.
“I believe that the Drinks Industry voluntary code of practice not to target children with their products is being blatantly ignored.”
The debate is supported by Angela Burns AM (Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire), Ann Jones AM (Vale of Clwyd), Keith Davies AM (Llanelli), Ken Skates AM (Clwyd South), Aled Roberts AM (North Wales), Mike Hedges AM (Swansea East) and Joyce Watson AM (Mid and West Wales).
The debate will take place during Plenary at the Senedd at 13.30 on Wednesday 15 May.
Individual Members Debates give Assembly Members a way of raising important issues of relevance to their constituents and to bring them to the attention of the National Assembly.
Link to the Agenda for Plenary on Wednesday 15 May 2013
Link to more information on Individual Members’ Debates