Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE MP has hosted a parliamentary roundtable in Westminster to discuss the urgent need for action to reduce salt consumption across the UK.
The roundtable, held on Tuesday 19 May, brought together parliamentarians, health experts, civil servants and leading charities, including the British Heart Foundation (BHF) and Action on Salt, to examine the links between excess salt intake, high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease.
The discussion focused on the latest evidence on diet-related ill health and explored practical policy measures to support population-wide reductions in salt consumption, helping to improve public health outcomes.
Hosting the event, Julian said, “It was great to bring together colleagues and experts from across Parliament and the health sector to discuss this important issue.
"Excess salt consumption is a major contributor to high blood pressure, which in turn is one of the leading preventable causes of heart attacks and strokes. By working together, we can help drive forward meaningful action to improve the country's health and reduce preventable illness.”
The roundtable highlighted the scale of the challenge facing the UK. High blood pressure remains a significant public health concern, affecting millions of people and acting as a key driver of cardiovascular disease.
Participants discussed the role of government, industry and public awareness campaigns in supporting healthier diets, including reformulation of food products, clearer labelling and improved public information.
The event formed part of wider efforts following Salt Awareness Week, May 11–17, to raise awareness of the health risks associated with excessive salt consumption and to encourage steps that can help people make healthier choices.
