GLASGOW desperately needs to get rid of its sick man of Europe' tag.

GLASGOW desperately needs to get rid of its sick man of Europe' tag.

While other aspects of life in the city have improved dramatically, the health problems of too many of its citizens remain stubbornly difficult to cure.

That helps make the case for Dr Linda de Caestecker's call for a total ban on alcohol advertising and removing chips from the menu in public buildings.

Such bans will not prevent people from either drinking too much or eating unhealthy foods.

But, as the curbs on tobacco advertising and the smoking ban have proved, restrictions help people change their habits.

Withdrawing fatty foods from the menu in public buildings at least offers the chance that people will choose a healthy option.

And any measure which makes alcohol less attractive, particularly to young binge drinkers, is worth considering.

No-one is saying people should not enjoy a drink or never eat chips but the city's health will improve if both are taken in moderation.

Laws needed to control factors

PATRICIA Ferguson's bill to crack down on rogue factors deserves the support of the Scottish Parliament.

It is ludicrous no legislation exists to regulate firms with so much power over householders.

Her plan for a system of dispute resolution avoiding the courts should also be backed.

Honest factors will have nothing to fear from Ms Ferguson's proposed legislation while it should help drive the bullies in the trade out of business.