The soft drinks levy has raised £153.8m in tax since its introduction in April, according to new government statistics.

The Soft Drinks Industry Levy (SDIL) was introduced in April 2018 as part of the government’s agenda to tackle childhood obesity.

Since April, over 90% of the net liabilities were declared by manufacturers at the higher levy rate (24p per litre), which applies to drinks with sugar content equal to or greater than eight grams per 100ml.

While many manufacturers have reduced the sugar content in their drinks products, over 450 have registered to pay the levy, HMRC said.

The Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, Robert Jenrick, said: “Today’s figures show the positive impact the soft drinks levy is having by raising millions of pounds for sports facilities and healthier eating in schools, as well as encouraging manufacturers to cut sugar in over half the drinks found in UK stores.

“Helping our next generation to have a healthy and active childhood is a priority for us, and I’m pleased to see the industry is playing its part.”

Meanwhile, a new survey commissioned by Public Health England has revealed around nine in 10 people support the government working with the food industry to make foods and drinks healthier.

This applied to all sectors, and no concessions were made for food consumed in restaurants, coffee shops or cafes.

The poll also revealed support from 87% of respondents to replace unhealthy products near supermarket checkouts with healthier ones.

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