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The Liberal Democrats would initially support both primary and secondary schoolchildren from families on universal credit before expanding the scheme to every primary pupil.

Wilson told the Mirror: “Given the cost of living crisis, the pressure on family budgets and the fact that more and more children are turning up to school hungry and therefore not ready to learn, I think we should certainly be looking at rolling out meals to all primary children.

“It’s crucial both in terms of saving families money during the cost of living crisis, improving educational outcomes and also improving health outcomes. We know that children end up getting a healthier meal if they get a hot meal at lunchtime at school, as opposed to a packed lunch.”

Last week when asked about extending free school meals provision Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said the focus instead would be on breakfast if the political party won the next general election.