By Ashley Murphy

Scottish First Minister John Swinney has revealed that he would not be able to fulfil the pledge for a “universal” rollout of the benefit aimed at young school children. The Scottish Government has said that due to financial pressures the funding would not be made available but are continuing to remain “resolutely committed”.

The Scottish Government has put the blame on the Westminster Government describing the issue as “prolonged Westminster austerity and record high inflation

School meals can cost families £400 a year per child and their regret at “repeated broken promises to Scotland’s children and young people” speaks for itself in the sense that children seem to be left behind to fend for themselves, the youngest and most vulnerable in the academic sector. They seems to be turning a blind eye when it comes to primary schools.

Liberal Democrat Leader Willie Rennie made sure his opinion was taken note of when discussing the past first ministers and they’re failing attempt to deliver for Scotland.

He said:”Nicola Sturgeon, Humza Yousaf and John Swinney all committed to universal free school meal for primary pupils, but they have all failed to deliver”

Renfrewshire Labour councillor Iain McMillan said: “A commitment was made a few years ago, the councils were gearing up for it, there has been progress made in some schools but stumbling blocks when it comes to other schools.”

Councillor McMillan explained the impact this decision will have on young children and their parents and how income will have an impact on some families.

“Some children already get free meals, but there are parents who are above the threshold.

“A lot of families are already on low incomes, it could help with the bills and clothing”

He also raised concerns around the impact that the decision will have on the health and wellbeing of children who may be impacted by the removal of the free meal: “People need good nutritious food and school should be a place where people can get a decent meal”

“It’s a vicious cycle, you need food to have the energy and if you don’t have the energy you won’t be able to learn.”