HC Deb 13 July 1949 vol 467 cc409-10
7. Dr. Barnett Stross

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether a school meals scheme has been introduced in Singapore under the auspices of the Social Welfare Department; and how many children benefit from it.

Mr. Rees-Williams

The Social Welfare Department in Singapore distributes soup to some 3,400 children daily in certain of the poorer schools. In addition, full meals are supplied daily to 3,000 children of whom about 2,000 are of school age but not attending school.

Dr. Stross

Can my hon. Friend say what are the plans for extending this service?

Mr. Rees-Williams

There was a school meals service in existence in 1946 and 1947, but it had to be discontinued because there was a lack of demand.

Mr. Baldwin

Before the Minister extends these schemes which, no doubt, are desirable, will he make sure that the finances of the Colony warrant it?