Context
The question stems from the government's review on extending free school meal provision to children of families who are not eligible for public support due to immigration status. This group includes over 100,000 individuals according to the Children's Society.
Question
What progress have the Government made in reviewing the extension of free school meals provision to children from families with no recourse to public funds? The policy has forced overstretched schools, charities and councils like Southwark to bear the burden. The Minister mentioned cross-Government talks but what specific representations have been made to the Home Office?
Answer from Vicky Ford
The Government remain committed to free school meals and extended eligibility during the pandemic. The new £170 million covid winter grant scheme targets hardest-to-help families, providing food support over holidays. Families with no recourse to public funds may receive Home Office support under the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999, and local authorities must safeguard children's welfare regardless of immigration status under section 17 of the Children Act 1989.
Not addressed: Specific representations made to the Home Office were not detailed
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