§ Lord Topeasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether it is their intention that, as a result of the Asylum and Immigration Bill, refugees no longer able to claim benefits will be deprived of the right to free school meals for their children; whether they believe such deprivation might create a risk to health; and whether, in their current negotiations with the local authorities, they will take any steps to allow such free school meals to continue.
§ The Minister of State, Department of Social Security (Lord Mackay of Ardbrecknish)The Asylum and Immigration Bill does not affect the benefit entitlement of refugees. The exclusion of immigrants from child benefit does not affect their potential entitlement to free school meals.
Entitlement to free school meals depends upon receipt of income support. Asylum seekers with children who are excluded from income support may be helped by local authorities under the special grant arrangements announced by the Secretary of State for Social Security on 11th January. It is for local authorities to decide how to meet the needs they identify.