Chancellor dismisses reports universal free school meals could be axed
Currently, Universal Free School Meals (UFSM) are available to all children in Reception, Year 1, and Year 2 in England, regardless of family income
Chancellor Rachel Reeves has denied claims that ministers are considering ending universal school meals for primary school children.
The news comes following a report in The Times that suggested Bridget Phillipson, the education secretary, was considering making free school meals means tested instead of universal as it is now.
Currently, Universal Free School Meals (UFSM) are available to all children in Reception, Year 1, and Year 2 in England, regardless of family income. This applies to state-funded schools, including academies and free schools.
Older children, those in Year 3 and above, currently are means tested and are eligible if families meet certain criteria, such as income-related benefits (e.g. Universal Credit with household income below £7,400/year after tax).
However, speaking to Sky News and other broadcasters today (24 March) the chancellor said “she did not recognise” those reports and that the government is “determined” to help working parents and all children get a “good start in life”.
She said: “”This government is rolling out free breakfast clubs in all primary schools from April. I don’t recognise those claims that the government is looking at means-testing free school meals.
“In fact, this government is ensuring that all children get a good start to the day with a breakfast club, helping working parents and helping all children get a good start in life. That is what this government is determined to do after 14 years of Conservative failure.”
The news comes ahead of the Spring Budget later this week which is expected to see the chancellor unveil a number of budget cuts as the government looks to achieve savings of around £10bn.