Speed Limits 'Could Cut Childhood Obesity'

A 20mph speed limit in built up areas could help tackle childhood obesity.

That's according to a group of child health experts who say slower roads will encourage kids to walk, cycle or scoot to school, and encourage safe play.

They are also calling on the Scottish government to introduce minimum alcohol pricing and provide better information to new mums on drinking while pregnant.

In Fife, latest figures show more than 20% of primary 1 pupils are classed at risk ove being overweight or obese.

Dr Peter Fowlie, Officer for Scotland for the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, said:

"Whilst our nation has much to be proud of when it comes to improving children’s health, it still has some of the poorest health outcomes in Western Europe, particularly relating to child obesity and child mortality levels.

"Deprivation is often at the root of the problem with children living in poverty more likely to be overweight or obese, be born with low birth weight and have parents that smoke heavily or drink alcohol. It’s clear we need to take action to reduce child health inequalities and a child health strategy which cuts across all Government departments could do that. We call on Government to work with us to develop this."