"With the Government announcement that schools should not provide free school meals over half-term, it is increasingly clear that the Government is out of touch, both with the schools and their families."
Chris Botten, Leader of the Liberal Democrats' group at Surrey County Council, has spoken out against the latest Government announcement on the provision of Free School Meals.
"With the Government announcement that schools should not provide free school meals over half-term, it is increasingly clear that the Government is out of touch, both with the schools and their families. Inadequate parcels, poorly specified and delivered, demonstrate what we have always believed- schools are best placed to know their families' needs.
"Child food poverty is a product of an inadequate welfare system, complicated COVID relief arrangements and families' circumstances changing all the time. As Liberal Democrats we say 'Empower and fund the schools to support their families and let the professionals do their best. Government meddling just causes confusion and mockery.'"
Penny Rivers, County Councillor for Godalming North, also responded to the Government's latest message:
Is this any way for a Government to treat schools, parents and children anytime but especially now, mid-pandemic? Where is their heart?"
