HC Deb 22 October 1971 vol 823 cc216-7W
Mr. Spearing

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if she will list in the OFFICIAL REPORT the local authorities who are now able to sell milk on request to any primary school pupil aged 7 to 11 years, those who are able to sell it to some, and those who are not selling milk on request to any pupils of this age; and if she will indicate the charges being made.

Mr. van Straubenzee

All local education authorities are empowered by the Education (Milk) Act to provide milk for sale in schools maintained by them. The power is a general one and extends to senior as well as junior pupils. The decision whether and to what extent to use the power lies with the authorities. I shall have some indication of the extent of its use when the autumn census of school meals and milk has been completed. My right hon. Friend does not expect to receive detailed information about charges.