§ Mr. Buchanan-Smithasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what factors control the rate of parents' contributions to the school meals service; if he is aware of the increasing costs of this service; and if he will review its financial arrangements.
§ Mr. RossPayments by parents for school meals are governed by an education authority's scheme of charges made under the Meals (Scotland) Regulations, 1953. The scheme provides for the authority to recover the charge prescribed under these Regulations; it may specify a reduced charge for certain categories of pupil; and must provide for the charge to be remitted in whole or in part in cases of financial hardship. Financial arrangements are regularly reviewed in the light of increasing costs and other relevant factors.