§ 22. Mr. Gowasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what is the latest estimate of the effect of the estimated provision for school meal subsidies during the years ending 5th April 1978 and 5th April 1979.
§ Mrs. Shirley WilliamsThe cost of subsidising the school meals service is estimated to be £362 million in the present financial year, and £313 million in 1978–79.
§ 48. Mr. Stoddartasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science when she expects to be able to announce whether school meals charges will be increased during 1978.
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§ Mrs. Shirley WilliamsAs soon as possible.
§ 53. Mr. Corbettasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what consideration has been given to introducing differential charges for school meals as between primary and secondary school children; and if she will make a statement.
§ Miss Margaret JacksonAlthough on average younger children eat less than older ones they need more supervision at dinner time. In addition, because primary school kitchens generally produce fewer meals than those in secondary schools the average cost per meal in terms of wages of kitchen staff is higher than at secondary schools. These factors tend to cancel one another out and provide no basis for differential charges.
§ Mr. Canavanasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what is the latest estimate of the number of children taking school meals.
§ Miss Margaret JacksonAbout 4.9 million in England according to the October 1977 returns.