Sharon Keogan (Independent)

I propose an amendment to the Order of Business, that No. 6 be taken before No. 1. No. 6 relates to seeking leave to introduce the Public Health (Restriction on Sale of Stimulant Drinks to Children) Bill 2025. The latter, which we can refer to as the energy drinks Bill, aims to prohibit the sale of stimulant drinks to young people under the age of 18. The Bill is necessary because it addresses the growing public health concern about the widespread availability and consumption of stimulant drinks, commonly known as energy drinks, among children and adolescents. These beverages, which are often high not only caffeine and sugar but also other stimulants such as taurine, have been linked to adverse health effects, including sleep disturbance, increased anxiety and cardiovascular issues in young people.

Among other things, the Bill sets out to prohibit the sale of stimulant drinks to individuals under 18 years of age, with appropriate penalties for non-compliance. It also seeks to restrict advertising targeted at children, in particular in proximity to schools, youth clubs and other venues frequented by minors. In addition, it seeks to mandate clear health warnings on packaging and at points of sale, informing consumers of potential health risks associated with excessive consumption.

This initiative aligns with our commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of our younger population. We will be following other European nations such as Hungary, which banned the sale of such drinks to minors last week, as well as Poland and Lithuania, where similar bans have resulted in major drops in the consumption of stimulant drinks among minors. I hope the House will grant leave to introduce the Bill. I look forward to engaging in a constructive debate on its provisions in due course.