SCOTLAND: Socialist MP puts up school meals bill

Issue 

BY SARAH PEART

GLASGOW — The latest report released by the National Child Helpline (NCH) Scotland on January 22 shows that 310,000 children (42%) across Scotland are living in poverty. It also shows that nearly half of all children live in families on income support.

Other statistics contained in the report show 22% of primary pupils and 17% of secondary pupils are entitled to free school meals — another indication of the level of deprivation in Scottish communities.

Scottish Socialist Party MSP Tommy Sheridan proposed a School Meals Bill to the Scottish Parliament on November 14. It is being co-sponsored by Scottish National Party MSP Alex Nell and Labour Party MSP John McAllion. It aims to introduce a system of universally free school meals that meet agreed nutritional standards.

The School Meals (Scotland) Bill's accompanying policy memorandum points out that universal, free and nutritious meals systems operate in other European Union countries. Finland has operated such a system since 1948. Infant mortality in Finland is among the lowest in the world.

"Scotland has the worse poverty record in Europe — and it is only marginally better than the USA and Mexico", said Danny Phillips of the Child Action Poverty Group.

"In order to tackle this reality what we need are higher benefit levels and a higher minimum wage. An important step to tackle this level of poverty is the introduction of free school meals for all children.

"The bill going through parliament to this effect is supported by Tommy Sheridan from the SSP. So far there are five MSPs from the six parties that have signed the bill — we need 12 to get the bill passed."

From Green Left Weekly, February 13, 2002.
Visit the Green Left Weekly home page.

If you like our work, become a supporter

Green Left is a vital social-change project and aims to make all content available online, without paywalls. With no corporate sponsors or advertising, we rely on support and donations from readers like you.

For just $5 per month get the Green Left digital edition in your inbox each week. For $10 per month get the above and the print edition delivered to your door. You can also add a donation to your support by choosing the solidarity option of $20 per month.

Freecall now on 1800 634 206 or follow the support link below to make a secure supporter payment or donation online.