Free School Meals/Pupil Premium: Eligibility Debate
Full Debate: Read Full DebateDepartment: Department for Education
Laura Smith
Main Page: Laura Smith (Labour - Crewe and Nantwich)Department Debates - View all Laura Smith's debates with the Department for Education
Free School Meals/Pupil Premium: Eligibility
Laura Smith Excerpts(6 years, 2 months ago)
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Mrs Hodgson
Yes. One of my reasons for supporting universal free school meals is that the stigma would be removed. It was proved in the excellent school food plan commissioned under the former Education Secretary, the right hon. Member for Surrey Heath (Michael Gove), that that was one of the benefits of universal free school meals. The poorest kids, who are entitled to them anyway, are the ones who benefit the most.
Laura Smith (Crewe and Nantwich) (Lab)
As a teenager, I was entitled to free school meals, but because of the stigma I did not take them. I used to refuse to queue up for my token, so I went without, which resulted in my developing a very controlling relationship with food and a lot of problems at home. I totally support my hon. Friend’s proposal, because free school meals for all children will mean that they all get a healthy meal and the stigma will disappear.
Mrs Hodgson
I totally agree. The same system should apply for all children who are entitled to universal credit, although wider access is another debate.