THE LIBERAL Democrats have announced their plans to extend free school meals to all primary school children, starting with children in poverty.
The plan would mean an extra 10,172 primary school children in Worcestershire receiving free school meals.
The Lib Dems said they will fund their policy by introducing a share buyback tax – inspired by a similar tax introduced by Joe Biden.
Currently the government provide meals for children in reception, year one and year two – but from year three and above there are conditions for free school meals.
Currently in Worcestershire, 19.5 per cent of primary school children in year three and above receive free school meals.
Analysis by PWC found that every £1 spent on free school meals for the poorest children generates £1.38 in health and earnings benefits, including improvements to children’s health, education and future working life opportunities.
Share buybacks occur when companies use profits to inflate their own share price, a practice which critics have warned can come at the expense of productive investment in the economy.
Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Candidate for Worcester, Mel Allcott said: “Across Worcester, there are too many children expected to learn on empty stomachs with no guarantee of a hot meal when they get home.
“Conservative MPs should hang their heads in shame at a legacy of children going hungry in the worst cost of living crisis in a generation.
“It is time for change. Every vote for the Liberal Democrats in Worcester is a vote for a local champion who will fight for the wellbeing of children and their futures.”
