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Unknown
12 July 2022
Lead MP
Emma Lewell
South Shields
Lab
Responding Minister
Not recorded
Tags
EducationChildren & Families
Word Count: 987
Other Contributors: 1
At a Glance
Emma Lewell raised concerns about unknown in Westminster Hall. Response awaited from government.
Key Requests to Government:
The Government should expand free school meal eligibility to all families receiving universal credit or equivalent benefits, which would cost an additional £550 million a year according to the Child Poverty Action Group. Furthermore, alongside that reform, they could introduce an automatic registration scheme for free school meals and move towards universal free school meals.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
There are nearly 4 million children in Britain living in poverty and over 800,000 missing out on free school meals. The North East Child Poverty Commission revealed that the north-east region now has the highest rate of child poverty in the UK with 38% of its children living in poverty. In South Shields alone, over 42% of children are living in poverty. Hungry children suffer developmental impairment and delayed motor skills, as well as psychological and emotional impacts.
Tom Watson
Lab
West Bromwich East
He agreed with the lead MP's comments on the Government's abysmal record throughout the pandemic, mentioning the chaotic voucher scheme and inadequate food parcels provided during holidays. He highlighted that without crowdfunding and support from various groups, children would have gone without meals.
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About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.