HARRY Cohen's political opponents have ridiculed his call for a public health warning to be issued about the dangers of spreading swine flu by kissing.

The Leyton MP last week asked health secretary Andy Burnham to issue advice on the perils of kissing “including a two-cheek greeting”.

Mr Cohen's plea was, however turned down.

Ed Northover, Conservative prospective parliamentary candidate for Leyton, rubbished Mr Cohen's idea.

Cllr Northover said: “More and more aspects of our lives are now subject to Government interference. It will be a sad day when politicians can tell us who we can kiss, whether that be on the lips or two-cheek greetings.

“ I respectfully suggest that Harry spends his last months in office focusing on the issues that matter."

Farooq Quereshi, Lib Dem candidate, said: "The local NHS, hospital and the local authority are doing everything they can to help in this epidemic.

"Instead of coming up with this ludicrous idea Harry Cohen should be spending more time trying to secure extra funding for the primary care trust.

The Guardian is hoping to speak to Mr Cohen, who is standing down at the next election, about the issue.

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