SUPERMARKET multi-buy deals are largely to blame for shoppers stocking up on junk food, a new poll by Cancer Research UK has found ahead of a Scottish Parliament debate on the nation’s obesity problem.

More than four fifths (82 per cent) of those questioned said price deals that offered extra items for free were influential in encouraging people to buy unhealthy food.

Meanwhile, the charity’s call for the Scottish Government to restrict price promotions on foods that are high in fat, sugar and salt is supported by the public with almost two thirds (62 per cent) of people backing the move.

The charity said obesity is the second biggest preventable cause of cancer after smoking and two thirds of those surveyed (66 per cent) were also worried about their weight or the weight of someone in their immediate family.

The results of the poll have been published ahead of a debate in the Scottish Parliament on Thursday.

The consultation on the plans, which would also see TV adverts for unhealthy food banned before 9pm, ends on Wednesday.

Professor Linda Bauld of Cancer Research UK said: “This survey shows that obesity is a worry for all of us – and with good reason. Obesity is linked to 13 different types of cancer.

“When we stock our cupboards with cheap chocolate, crisps and biscuits, we are getting far more than we bargained for. Obesity costs us dearly and this survey tells us the public want action.

“On World Cancer Day [February 4], we hope politicians will unite to call time on obesity in Scotland. In the fight against obesity, laws to restrict the tempting junk food deals that are at the heart of Scotland’s poor diet will be crucial.”

The new survey also uncovered public support for supermarkets rebalancing their price promotions away from unhealthy food to other staple household items, with 72 per cent of those questioned supporting the idea.

Thursday’s debate has been backed by Richard Lochhead MSP. He said: “The Scottish Government has pledged to take forward a series of bold measures to tackle obesity, including restricting multi-buy promotions on junk food. As World Cancer Day approaches, we need to see everyone unite behind these ambitious and world-leading plans.”