§ Mr. Boothbyasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what percentage of children in Scotland are now receiving meals in schools; whether he proposes to take any steps to increase the provision of meals in schools; and whether he has approached the local authorities on the subject?
Mr. JohnstonNearly 7 per cent. of the children in Scottish schools are receiving a substantial meal daily, and a further 5 per cent. are receiving a light meal. I am taking every step I can to encourage local authorities to increase their provision of meals and considerable financial help has been offered to them. I am at present in consultation with the Minister of Food with a view to encouraging a further increase in this service.