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The Scottish Government said the country’s financial position meant that universal free school meals couldn’t be fully implemented by 2026. They said should funding from the UK Government become available, then they will endeavour to complete delivery for all of Scotland’s primary pupils.

Chris Ross, chair of ASSIST FM the Scottish council catering and services providers organisation, commented: “ASSIST FM members view the expansion of UFSM as a key linchpin in the delivery of a Good Food Nation across Scotland’s educational establishments. Our members are firmly committed to universal access too freshly cooked, locally sourced nutritionally balanced lunches. These invest in our pupils and communities future.   

“Many authorities were well underway in detailed planning and analysis of innovative solutions to deliver the universal programme to all primary school pupils and the news will come as a massive set back in providing a sustainable catering service to growing numbers of pupils.

“Members await further information from the Scottish Government on the logistics and detail of delivering UFSM to pupils in receipt of SCP and revised timescales for implementing the programme, along with the appropriate levels of capital investment, which were due to be allocated to local authorities earlier this year. 

“Our commitment as local authorities remains (as it has always been) to deliver vital services in the local communities we serve. The need for continued and sustainable funding and a commitment to valuing the importance of the school meals service remains the highest priority for ASSIST FM members.”