Meanwhile intense discussion abounds on whether curbing junk food advertising represents a necessary safeguard or unnecessary meddling from a "nanny state".
In this flurry of policy-making there is a vital - even obvious - element that all too easily gets overlooked, and that is children's play.
As well as its other benefits, play provides unparalleled opportunities for children to exercise, particularly through activities such as walking or informal ball games. PE and games lessons may be the most energetic part of the school day, but they last little more than an hour a week - not enough to meet children's health needs.
What's more, children themselves are eager to play. During a series of consultations that the Children's Play Council held in 2002, we found that children and young people overwhelmingly wanted more opportunities for physical activity and outdoor play.
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