§ 34. Mr. Stoddartasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what recent representations she has received concerning the reintroduction of free school milk for all primary school children.
§ Miss Margaret JacksonSo far this year my right hon. Friend has had representations on this subject from eight right hon. and hon. Members, the Milk Marketing Board, the Sedgefield District Council and one member of the public. She is aware also of Early-Day Motion No. 157, "Free Milk for Schoolchildren."
§ 35. Mr. Newensasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what financial help is available from the EEC for the provision of milk in schools; and if she will make a statement.
§ Miss Margaret JacksonAn EEC subsidy is payable on milk supplied to schoolchildren provided the member State is itself making a contribution and EEC regulations can be satisfied. At present the EEC subsidy is about 3p per pint where the member State is contributing at least 1½p.
My Department is making arrangements to enable local education authorities to claim the subsidy and local authorities supplying free milk to junior pupils under their free-rate powers will also be able to claim it. The EEC scheme will last for five years in the first instance.