The Government is close to being able to confirm that the height and weight of all primary school children will be measured each year in an effort to tackle obesity.
Dr Sheela Reddy, head of nutrition at the Department of Health, told a workshop organised by the Child Growth Foundation that talks were ongoing with the Department for Education and Skills over who would carry out the tests.
She said the issue had not been resolved but both departments had agreed to introduce annual measurement. School nurses would be best placed but staff shortages mean they are already under huge pressure.
