HC Deb 10 December 1982 vol 33 cc626-7W
Mr. Christopher Price

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science whether he has made any estimate of the number of children receiving free school meals who are statutorily entitled to this benefit by virtue of the family being in receipt of either supplementary benefit or family income supplement.

Dr. Boyson

It is estimated that some 640,000 pupils received free meals under this criterion on the day of the school meal census in October 1981.

Mr. Christopher Price

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what would be the estimated additional cost if all children statutorily entitled to free school meals took up this benefit.

Dr. Boyson

Approximately £40 million per annum.