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Closed All Primary school children should receive free school meals

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Currently, only children whose families are on less than £7400 a year, and are in receipt of universal credit, are entitled to free school meals.

It has been estimated that it would cost 950 million to provide universal free school meals.

However, the cost-of-living crisis means that many families, who fall out of this remit, are struggling to give their children a hot meal.

We must look beyond the cost and consider the enormous benefits to our young people. There is a direct link between children's diets and their educational attainment, and therefore free school meals are vital.

When our government says there is no money, or that such a policy is unaffordable: It is a lack of pollical will and not a lack of money.

Our children deserve this free school meal provision. If the government is serious about supporting growth, this should start with helping our children.
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  • Related activity

    Provision of free school meals debated by MPs

    MPs held a debate on the provision of free school meals on Tuesday 7 May in Westminster Hall. The debate was led by Munira Wilson MP.

    The Minister for Schools, Damian Hinds MP, responded on behalf of the Government.

    During the debate MPs discussed the value of free school meals for children's health, well-being and educational attainment.
    In response, the Minister outlined the extent of free school meal support currently in place and the vital role it plays in supporting disadvantaged children.

    What is a Westminster Hall debate?

    Westminster Hall is the second chamber of the House of Commons. Westminster Hall debates give MPs an opportunity to raise local and national issues and receive a response from a government minister. Westminster Hall debates are general debates that do not end in a vote.

    Visual explainer: Westminster Hall debates

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    This petition will stay open until 29 June 2023.