### Starmer to Face PMQs Following Welfare Bill Adjustment
Today, the UK Covid-19 inquiry is gathering testimony from former Health Secretary Matt Hancock. Updates will be provided as they unfold.
At noon, Prime Minister Keir Starmer will attend Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) in Parliament. Below is the list of MPs scheduled to pose questions to the prime minister.
### Stream Available for PMQs
A live feed of today’s session has been added to the blog. Some users may need to refresh the page to view it.
### Call for Stronger Measures to Address Scotland’s Obesity Crisis
Scotland’s food regulatory body has urged accelerated efforts to improve dietary habits and combat rising obesity levels.
Food Standards Scotland (FSS) acknowledged recent preventive measures but stressed progress has been too slow, with Scotland trailing other parts of the UK in certain areas. Data from the 2023 Scottish health survey revealed that 32% of adults now live with obesity, up from 24% in 2003.
While the FSS supported proposed curbs on marketing foods high in fat, salt, and sugar, it emphasized the need for deeper systemic changes. The agency plans to engage Health Secretary Neil Gray, advocating for a cohesive policy approach—encompassing reserved matters like sugar taxes and food labeling.
Heather Kelman, FSS Board Chair, stated:
"While the current trajectory is positive, interventions must be more decisive, rapid, and adequately funded. Public well-being cannot be secondary to business concerns. Prolonged inaction worsens health disparities and escalates costs tied to poor diets."
Kelman noted that Scotland has some of Europe’s highest rates of diet-related illnesses, including obesity and type 2 diabetes.
She added:
"Without prompt, coordinated steps, Scotland is unlikely to meet its goal of halving childhood obesity by 2030. The strain on healthcare from preventable conditions will only intensify. While medical interventions assist, prevention remains paramount. We require a comprehensive overhaul of food policies—one backed by commitment and leadership across UK governments."
### Starmer Prepares for PMQs
The prime minister is en route to the House of Commons for today’s session.
### Starmer Reaffirms Commitment to Housing Reform
Keir Starmer announced his government’s push for expanded social and affordable housing. In a series of statements, he emphasized:
"After years of unmet housing needs under prior leadership, my administration is implementing the most significant housing initiative in decades."
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