§ Bob RussellTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills (1) if he will make a statement on provision of school meals by Essex county council; [146625]
(2) what statutory requirements there are on local education authorities to provide school meals; and if he will make a statement. [146627]
§ Mr. Stephen TwiggLocal education authorities have a duty to provide free and paid for school meals that meet nutritional standards. Where a school has a delegated budget for meals, the governing body takes on these responsibilities. From April 2000, funding for school meals was delegated to all secondary schools. Primary and special schools can opt for delegation.
From April 2004, Essex county council will delegate the budget for primary school meals. Primary school governing bodies will have the freedom to choose what form school meals should take, including the type of dishes served and the ingredients which are used. They can also choose the suppliers or providers for the school meal service.