§ 10. Mr. Hastingsasked the Minister of Education what steps he is taking to make certain that his inspectors of schools who supervise the meals service make sure that balanced meals containing a sufficiency of uncooked vegetable foods are served.
§ Mr. VosperAlthough my right hon. Friend prescribes in general terms the nutritional standards for the school meals service, the administration and supervision is the responsibility of the local education authorities. Her Majesty's Inspectors do, however, give advice, and I am sure that they would draw attention to any deficiencies.
§ Mr. HastingsHow does the Minister know that Her Majesty's inspectors have a sufficient interest in and knowledge of dietary for their inspection to be of any use at all? They are educationists. May I suggest that it might be useful if the Minister sent round some inspectors who had a special interest in and knowledge of dietary?
§ Mr. VosperThat is done. Some of Her Majesty's inspectors have specialised knowledge of dietetics in the school meals service. In addition, in many cases local authorities have their own nutritional experts. I am sure that this Question will come to the notice of those concerned.