1in 4 West Midlands Children not taking up free school meal

1.45.23pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 30th Mar 2004

Figures released today by the Liberal Democrats reveal that more than 1 in 4 Secondary School and nearly 1 in 6 Primary School pupils in the West Midlands are not taking up their right to a free school meal.

The areas with the greatest percentage of eligible pupils missing out are:

Secondary Schools Primary Schools

Dudley Solihull

37.5% 22.8

Herefordshire Dudley

35.3% 21.7

Sandwell Sandwell

34.1% 18.7

Commenting on the figures West Midlands Liberal Democrat Euro-MP Liz Lynne said:

"The Government have to do more to get rid of the stigma which often deter parents from allowing their children to have free school meals.

"A healthy and nutritious meal at lunchtime is essential to our children's health. A free school meal should mean a two course lunch and a drink according to the Secretary of State. However, research commissioned by his department has shown that pupils are having to pay extra or select a less than adequate meal.

"A free school meal should have high nutritional value and it should be an attractive offer to children. Simply offering children a plate of chips is not sufficient.

"The whole point of free school meals is to provide the most needy children with a good nutritious meal - yet many would rather do without. For too many pupils, there is no such thing as a free lunch under Labour."

ENDS

Notes To Editors