SCHOOL MEALS CHANCE TO BOOST LOCAL ECONOMIES: GREEN MSP
Alison Johnstone, Green MSP for Lothian and food spokesperson for the Scottish Greens, today welcomed plans for free school meals for P1-3 children but urged Scottish ministers to ensure the roll-out benefits local economies.
Research last summer by Alison Johnstone revealed that the chicken served in school meals in six of Scotland's seven cities is not Scottish, but is instead imported from as far away as Thailand.
Alison Johnstone, a member of Holyrood's economy committee, said:
“Rolling out free school meals is a welcome, common sense move but ministers must also address what is being served up to our children. Our councils need support to make buying choices which have positive impacts for local farmers and producers. I will continue to put pressure on ministers so that they do not waste this golden opportunity."