Hyslop Condemns Labour For Voting Against Free School Meals
Scottish Government Policy to Benefit 6,514 in West Lothian
Local Constituency MSP, Fiona Hyslop has condemned Lothians Labour MSPs decision to vote against the Scottish Government’s policy to provide healthy free school meals to all pupils
Fiona Hyslop said,
“This funding is a welcome support for our ever growing population of young children in West Lothian. With a 9.6% rise since 2001, we have the 7th highest number of under 5s of any council area in Scotland therefore this funding will greatly benefit our children as they grow up.
“I am very surprised and hugely disappointed that Labour MSPs did not support Free School Meals for P1-P3s particularly when the announcement has already been warmly welcomed by Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG) in Scotland, Children in Scotland, Children 1st, the Educational Institute of Scotland (EIS), STUC and UNISON.
“I was proud to vote for the rollout of healthy free school meals for the 6,514 eligible p1-3 children in West Lothian. From January next year, this policy will improve health and wellbeing, increase attainment, equality and nutrition and ultimately it can save money for our local families.
“As the Government Minister who introduced the pilot of Free School Meals in three council areas for P1-P3s, I know the benefits that this policy can bring.”