The Scottish Government has been accused of failing children by watering down plans for free school meals and leaving thousands hungry over Christmas.
Despite pledging to bring in free school meals for all P6 and P7s, ministers backtracked this week by announcing it would initially be for those who get benefits only. In Thursday’s Budget, Deputy First Minister John Swinney also confirmed a two-year delay to the universal rollout, setting a new target of 2024.
He confirmed there would be “free school meals for all Primary Six and Seven pupils in receipt of the Scottish Child Payment”, which campaigners said defeats the aim of universal free meals as it will stigmatise children receiving them if it is means-tested. He also failed to announce when a pilot for secondary schools will begin, despite previous government pledges.
