THE Education Secretary has been slapped down for proposing cuts to free school meals as the only way to save cash.
Bridget Phillipson reportedly suggested a £500million package of spending reductions that included means-testing young kids who currently get the dinners.
Bridget Phillipson has been slapped down for proposing cuts to free school meals as the only way to save cash[/caption]
Government sources yesterday insisted infant free school meals were safe, with Chancellor Rachel Reeves saying she “did not recognise” the plans.
All state school pupils in reception, Year 1 and Year 2 get free dinners no matter their family income.
Insiders accused Ms Phillipson of a “bleeding stumps” ploy to put the meals on the table knowing the Treasury would reject it as politically toxic, and therefore sparing her department from the looming cuts.
She is already in the firing line following criticism of her controversial schools reforms.
All Cabinet Ministers have been ordered to find savings in their budgets as part of a line-by-line government spending review.
Ms Reeves said: “I don’t recognise those claims that the Government are looking at means-testing free school meals.
“In fact, this Government are ensuring that all children get a good start to the day with a breakfast club, helping working parents and helping all children get a good start in life.”
An ally of Ms Phillipson last night hit back: “It’s no secret that there are some tough choices coming down the track – but if people don’t think Bridget is going to fight tooth and nail to protect programmes that support the most disadvantaged children, they don’t know Bridget very well.
“Any suggestions those things are being ‘offered up’ is complete rubbish.”
