asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health whether his attention has been directed to the scheme adumbrated in Great Britain of incorporating in the school meal of children one vitamin biscuit containing an adequate daily ration of necessary vitamins, thus greatly widening the range of essential foodstuffs for poor people; and, if so, whether he intends to adopt a similar scheme for the children in this country.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Children's School Meals.
As regards the first part of the question it would appear that the matter referred to is related to a possible shortage of protective foodstuffs. From the examination of the position which has so far been made, similar action in this country does not appear to be necessary.
Does not the Parliamentary Secretary agree that if such action were taken here it would greatly widen the range of essential foodstuffs available to the poor and enable them to spend their modest resources to greater advantage?
That aspect of the problem is being examined in the Department.
And if that aspect of the problem should carry conviction to the Parliamentary Secretary's mind, may I assume that the scheme adumbrated here will be pursued?
I could not go further at the moment than to say that the whole position is being examined and will be carefully considered.