The Department of Health has not made a specific assessment of the effect of access to the Nursery Milk Scheme on children's health outcomes. However, the proposed changes to the Nursery Milk Scheme have been designed to ensure that the benefits of the Nursery Milk Scheme continue to apply equally to al! eligible under children—on a universal basis. In parallel with the public consultation, we also asked all child care providers currently registered with the scheme to complete a simple survey about how the scheme works for them now, and how potential changes might affect them and the children they care for. The questions asked included those on packaging preferences. We have conducted an in-depth analysis of all the responses to the Nursery Milk consultation and the accompanying survey; to ensure that the most suitable way forward for the Scheme does not disadvantage children or child care providers. As part of the consultation process we carried out an impact assessment of the proposed options on business including small to medium sized businesses. The data gathered during the consultation process will help to inform this assessment. Based on the evidence received, we will provide a fuller assessment of the direct impact on small to medium sized businesses. A decision about the future operation of the Scheme will be made after full consideration is given to the impact assessment, a comprehensive analysis of the consultation responses, and other relevant information.