§ Mrs. Chalkerasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he will look into the provision of the cafeteria system of school meals; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ArmstrongThis matter was considered by the Committee on Catering Arrangements in Schools. I am not yet in a position to make a statement.
§ Mr. Clemitsonasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what would be the cost of the abolition of all charges for school meals.
§ Mr. ArmstrongAt present take-up rates it would cost an additional £105 million a year to abolish the charge for school meals, but there would almost certainly be an increase in demand with resultant further cost of the order of £100 million a year. The total cost of providing free meals for all pupils might be £410 million a year.