Scottish Government Faces Backlash Over Rollback on Universal Free School Meals

The decision to limit free school meals to only selected pupils sparks criticism from the Children’s Commissioner and opposition parties.

• The Scottish Government announced the rollback of its plan to provide universal free school meals for all primary pupils.
• Only Primary 6 and 7 students receiving the Scottish Child Payment will now be eligible for free meals.
• Children's Commissioner Nicola Killean and opposition parties have condemned the move as a broken promise.
• Critics argue that the decision exacerbates stigma and food insecurity among children.
• The government cites financial pressures from high inflation and prolonged austerity for the policy change.

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