Free school meals for all primary school pupils

Extending free school meals for seven to eleven year olds will benefit 35,000 children in Cumbria and save parents around £400 per child a year says Tim Farron.

These plans will more than double the offer of free schools meals to all five, six and seven year old pupils delivered by the Liberal Democrats in government.

Studies have shown that a hot, healthy meal at lunchtime greatly improves the health, behaviour and results of school children, helping them get the best start in life.

When free school meals were first introduced, between 3 and 5% more children reached target levels in maths and English at Key Stage 1, showing that the school meal initiative will help kids to fulfil their potential.

Tim said: "I want every child to have the best possible start in life. That's why I want every child to have a hot, healthy school lunch. We know that giving children a healthy lunch helps them to concentrate in the afternoon and do better in class.

"It will also save parents £400 for every child they have in primary school."