McDonald’s accused of tough tactics in fights with councils over new branches

One obesity campaigner called McDonald’s claims ‘pure corporate spin’. Photograph: Andy Rain/EPA

McDonald’s has thwarted attempts to stop it opening new outlets by stressing that it sells salad, promotes “healthier lifestyles” and sponsors local children’s football teams.

Public health experts claim the fast-food firm uses a “playbook” of questionable arguments and tough tactics to force local councils in England to approve applications to open branches.