HC Deb 10 November 1966 vol 735 c1514
8. Mr. Charles Morrison

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what is to happen to Her Majesty's Inspectors with special responsibility for meals in maintained schools, in the light of Circular 20/66; and what is the estimated additional cost of the professional catering experts.

Mr. Redhead

They are being assigned to other necessary duties within H.M. Inspectorate. The cost to the Department of employing catering advisers will be less than the former arrangement.

Mr. Morrison

Does not the Minister of State agree that the cost of the subsidy for school meals will be increased as a result of this circular? In any case, why was it felt necessary to supersede H.M. Inspectorate which has done the work so well in recent years?

Mr. Redhead

The change was made because, in the light of experience, we feel that it is the most effective way of catering for the need. The educational aspects of school meals will continue to be over-sighted by general inspectors.