SNP and Labour vote down opposition from Tories and Lib Dems to introduce anti-obesity measure
Free school meals for pupils aged 5-7 approved by MSPs
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Controversial plans to provide free school meals for five to seven-year-olds were approved by MSPs last night.
The SNP and Labour joined forces at Holyrood to vote down opposition from the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats.
Councils, many of which have expressed misgivings, are now expected to introduce the policy, but are not compelled by law to do so.
Children’s Minister Adam Ingram welcomed the move and said it would bring about a “culture change” in the eating habits of youngsters.
He added: “A universal approach is required because obesity is a growing problem across the population.”
The news was welcomed by Aberdeen City Council education spokeswoman Kirsty West, who recently gave evidence on the issue to the Scottish Parliament’s education committee.
“MSPs have today recognised the social and health benefits of free school meals,” added the SNP councillor.
“Aberdeen City Council will of course fulfil the terms of the Concordat Agreement with the Scottish Government to provide free school meals for our children.”
Miss West said the authority would ideally like to provide free lunches and breakfasts for P1-P3.
The statement puts her at odds with council officials who said in a submission to the committee that they remain “unconvinced” it represents the best use of money or the best way to help children.
Some 24 other councils including Aberdeenshire, Angus and Perth and Kinross have expressed misgivings about the scheme.
Tories and the Lib Dems are not convinced that councils should be proving free meals to children whose families can afford to pay for them.
But Mr Ingram said: “It is our duty to look after all children regardless of background or income and we know it is not just children from poorer families that are nutritionally challenged.”
The scheme was announced last month after trials in five councils throughout the country. It will cost £30million initially to implement and is due to be introduced in 2010.
Labour education spokeswoman Rhona Brankin said it was “dishonest” to expect councils to introduce a new policy without extra funding.
Tory education spokes-woman Liz Smith questioned why legislation was not being brought compelling councils to deliver free school meals: “Is the real truth not that they know this policy cannot be delivered?”
