Written question WQ85151

Work is well underway with local authorities to co-construct a staged approach to the implementation of Universal Primary Free School Meals. As well as matching the capacity of schools to effectively deliver the extended provision, the pace of the roll-out needs to ensure pupils are provided with a high-quality food offer and that the nutritional value of the food is maintained.

To support local authorities, revenue funding of up to £200m has been set aside for local authorities to deliver the commitment, with £40m to be provided in 2022-23, £70m in 2023-24 and £90m in 2024-25. In addition, £25m of capital funding has initially been made available for local authorities to invest in school kitchen and dining infrastructure as part of the plans.

During the roll-out all local authorities and governing bodies of maintained schools must continue to comply with the Healthy Eating in Schools (Nutritional Standards and Requirements) (Wales) Regulations 2013. The Regulations set out the type of food and drink which may be provided during the school day. They are accompanied by the Healthy eating in maintained schools statutory guidance.

In addition, we have made a commitment to undertake a review of the Regulations to incorporate the latest scientific research and recommendations concerning nutritional standards. Engagement and consultation with local authorities will be an important element of this review and we look forward to working with them to ensure that the food offered to children at schools is of the best quality and nutritional value possible. We will provide more detailed information about the staging and timing of this review in due course.

This work is being carried out in collaboration with Siân Gwenllian MS, the Plaid Cymru lead designated member, as part of the Co-operation Agreement between the Welsh Government and Plaid Cymru.