§ Mr. SteinbergTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what plans he has to enforce minimum nutritional standards in school meals. [108442]
§ Jacqui SmithThe Government believe it is very important that children should be able to have healthy and enjoyable school meals. We have consulted widely on the introduction of minimum nutritional standards for school lunches, and we are currently considering representations on our draft Regulations and guidance. Schools and local education authorities will be under a duty to comply with the Regulations, to be laid this year, which will set out the new standards. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State will investigate any complaints that the standards are not being met and could issue a direction to ensure compliance with the statutory duties.