Milkshakes and lattes to be taxed

The government has announced an extension of the soft drinks industry levy to more high-sugar drinks, including milk-based drinks.

Changes will apply the charge to pre-packaged milk-based and milk-alternative drinks with added sugar like supermarket milkshakes, flavoured milks, sweetened yoghurt drinks, chocolate milk drinks, and ready-to-drink coffees such as lattes.

Companies have until January 2028 to remove sugar or face the new charge which will add £1 billion in health and economic benefits.

Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said: "An unhealthy start to life holds kids back from day one, especially those from poor backgrounds like mine. We’re on a mission to raise the healthiest generation of children ever, and that means taking on the biggest drivers of poor health.

"The levy has already shown that when industry cuts sugar levels, children’s health improves. So, we’re going further .

“A healthier nation will mean less pressure on our NHS, a healthier economy, and a happier society. It’s a simple change that is part of this government’s mission to give every child a healthy start to life.”

• What do you think about the tax?
• Is it nanny state, or needed for the health of kids?

Responses this afternoon.