§ Baroness Davidasked Her Majesty's Government:
What is their attitude to the provision of school meals for those not entitled to free meals, and whether they intend to pay attention to the views of parents on this matter, with particular reference to the campaign by parents in Cambridgeshire.
§ Viscount DavidsonIt is for local authorities to determine whether or not to provide a school meals service beyond that required by law. In Great Britain, authorities have a duty to provide free meals for certain pupils and to provide facilities for pupils bringing packed lunches to schools. In Northern Ireland, local authorities are also required to provide a school meals service to pupils in nursery, primary and special schools.
Beyond this, all local authorities should determine their school meals provision in the light of the needs and circumstances of the area and the views of local communities.