Skip to main content
Search Results

School meal standards ‘may be lowered’ under emergency powers

19th Mar 2020 - 07:39
Image
LACA school meals stephen forster food standards
Abstract
New Government emergency powers to deal with the impact of the coronavirus (Covid-19) are reported to include giving ministers authority to ‘lower school food standards’.

The far-reaching powers have been agreed behind the scenes by all political parties are expected to pass into law without challenge.

In addition to measures to strengthen police powers and allow local authorities to direct funeral providers, part of the new bill relates directly to schools.

Under it, ministers will be given the power to force schools to stay open or close them, to reduce teacher-pupil ratios, lower school meal standards and relax requirements for those with special needs.

LACA chair Stephen Forster said of the measures relating to school food standards: “These are unprecedented times, and we are focused on working together so that the schools meals industry will work collaboratively and creatively to continue to deliver school meals.

“Our priority is in working to ensure that all of those in the most need, continue to get fed.”

The move follows an open letter to the Department for Education signed by more than 120 head teachers calling for clear guidance on how to solve the free school meal issue should schools close, and suggesting working with supermarkets to ensure youngsters don’t go hungry.

Forster added that he had heard the rumours about vouchers, adding: “The challenge will be what the supermarkets have in stock and how accessible it will be.”

 

Category
Written by
David Foad