SECONDARY school pupils could soon be facing compulsory weight checks as part of a plan to tackle obesity.

Under recommendations by a group of Scottish Government experts, pupils starting first year will undergo the checks to determine if medical 'intervention' is necessary.

Reports suggest those found to be overweight or obese would receive treatment ranging from healthy eating schemes to drugs or gastric band operations.

The healthcare professionals warn that "greatly increased action" is needed to tackle obesity.

However, critics have warned the weigh-ins could have negative repercussions.

A spokeswoman for eating disorder charity Beat said: "This age group is a particularly sensitive one when it comes to body image and self-esteem.

"We are hearing of children at primary school age becoming far more self-conscious which can contribute to the development of an eating disorder.

"A general health check, not just of weight would be preferable."

Almost one in three Scottish children aged two to 15 is overweight and around one in six is obese.

The panel warned that if nothing is done about it, it could affect the "future vibrancy of Scotland's economy".

A Scottish Government spokesman said: "Keeping children active is crucial, which is why between 2012 and 2016 we have committed £11.6 million to provide two hours of physical education a week for primary school children and two periods a week in secondary schools.

"We will be reviewing our wider obesity strategy this year."