11/12/2025
An early start for me yesterday, but worth it to join Peers to discuss our how we can strengthen the partnership between the Royal College of Physicians and policymakers in tackling some of the biggest drivers of ill health: air quality, obesity, to***co, and the wider determinants of health.
After fabulous talks by RCPās Dr Katherine McCullough, Professor Sanjay Agrawal, and Professor Sir Stephen Holgate, we were able to discuss areas where collaboration is already strong, such as our joint work on the food report, and to recognise the shared commitment to improving population health.
A few reflections that stood out for me:
- Accountability matters.
The Lords have a crucial role in ensuring Government delivers on the Clean Air Act commitments, fully implements the junk food advertising restrictions in January 2026, and resists proposed amendments that would weaken to***co control.
- Early years support is essential.
Family hubs offer promise, but gaps remain in universal access and the loss of in-person support that was so effective in the Sure Start era. Behaviour change often starts with human connection.
- Addiction cuts across these challenges.
Whether food, to***co, technology, even car use, understanding the āaddictive driversā behind our behaviours is helpful, but legislation is the key way to bring about change.
- Fiscal levers still work.
Though not the domain of the Lords, taxation remains one of the most powerful tools we have for nudging healthier choices, but legislation remains key!
I left the conversation energised and grateful for the insight and commitment shown by colleagues in the House of Lords. There is real opportunity for sustained collaboration to improve the nationās health, and plenty of food for thought.
