UK government says combating obesity will aid fight against Covid

A ban on television ads for junk food before 9pm, no more “buy one get one free” offers for foods high in fat, salt and sugar – and a big push for the nation to get fitter.

Giving details of the much trailed plan to tackle obesity in England, ministers said if people who are overweight lose five pounds it would help protect against the worst risks of coronavirus – as well as saving the NHS billions of pounds.