The government will today publish its long awaited health white paper aiming to reduce obesity, cut smoking and crack down on binge drinking.

The health secretary, John Reid, will detail his proposals in a Commons statement expected at around 12.30pm.

He will announce a ban on lighting up in the vast majority of pubs and all restaurants in England and Wales.

An outright ban on smoking will apply in all premises that serve prepared food.

Smoking will also be banned at the bars of all licensed premises.

And the nation's diet is set to come under close scrutiny with a ban on the TV advertising of junk food before 9.00pm.

Regulatory body Ofcom will be charged with reaching a voluntary deal with the industry.

A new traffic light branding scheme will also indicate the best and worst food products available in supermarkets.

Foods high in fat, salt and sugar will be given a red light, with healthy options being awarded the green light.

The government is also expected to announce a renewed drive to get people to take exercise.

Reports suggest that personal trainers will be made available on the NHS in order to break the image of the UK as a nation of "couch potatoes".