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School Breakfast
13 October 2020
Lead MP
Emma Lewell-Buck
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
Children & Families
Other Contributors: 1
At a Glance
Emma Lewell-Buck raised concerns about school breakfast in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
The lead MP argued that the School Breakfast Bill is necessary to ensure that all children have access to a nutritious breakfast at school, which can significantly improve their learning and cognitive development. She cited studies showing links between nutrition and academic performance, noting that hungry children achieve two GCSE grades lower than those who eat breakfast regularly. The Bill aims to mandate breakfast club facilities in schools where 50% or more of pupils are from low-income families, funded through the soft drinks levy. It would also ensure no child is left behind by providing meals for those without recourse to public funds.
Emma Lewell-Buck
Lab
South Shields
The MP highlighted that over 2 million children across England start the school day hungry, impacting their ability to learn and causing developmental delays. She provided examples of children rummaging through bins for food or only having a small piece of chocolate as breakfast. The Bill aims to address this by ensuring all state-funded primary and secondary schools receive funding from the soft drinks levy if at least 50% of pupils are in the income deprivation affecting children index, thus guaranteeing breakfast provision for every child.
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About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.