The government faces fresh criticism this week over Britain's soaring child obesity rates in a report into the role of schools published by its own education watchdog.

The chief inspector of schools in England, David Bell, will tomorrow issue his first study into the way that healthy eating and the importance of exercise are taught, and will conclude that overall such teaching is patchy and often unsatisfactory.

Forum Response: Professional Association of Teachers

Alison Johnston, PAT senior professional officer, told ePolitix.com: "We would welcome further initiatives to combat obesity and promote healthy eating. We urge schools to do more to encourage their pupils to cut down on junk food and eat more healthy alternatives such as fruit. There have been pilot schemes in parts of the UK to give out fruit in schools.