Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver has called for vulnerable children in the UK to be given free school meals. Speaking at the Future of Britain conference, Oliver emphasized the importance of protecting the most vulnerable children in the country. He praised London Mayor Sadiq Khan’s plan to provide free meals to all primary-aged pupils by 2023/24 and suggested that this policy should be replicated across England. Currently, households in England must meet certain income requirements to qualify for free school meals. Oliver also highlighted the need to protect children from junk food advertising and emphasized that all pupils should leave education knowing how to cook at least ten dishes.
Jamie Oliver’s three proposed priorities for improving the health of Britain’s children were discussed at the Future of Britain conference. The famous chef called for vulnerable children to be given free school meals, praising the efforts of London Mayor Sadiq Khan to make meals freely available to all primary-aged pupils for 2023/24. Oliver suggested that this policy should be implemented across England to ensure that vulnerable children are protected. Currently, families in England must meet specific income criteria to qualify for free school meals.
Oliver also stressed the importance of protecting children from junk food advertising. He argued that the government should take steps to limit the exposure of children to advertisements for unhealthy food. Additionally, Oliver expressed his desire for all children leaving school to have basic cooking skills. He proposed that every child should know how to cook at least ten dishes, which would equip them with essential culinary knowledge for their future.
Furthermore, Oliver expressed concern about the consumption of energy drinks among children. He criticized the fact that many children were consuming these beverages for breakfast, despite warnings on the labels advising against their sale to children. Oliver called on ministers to intervene and address this issue, emphasizing the negative impact of energy drinks on children’s intelligence.
Overall, Jamie Oliver’s proposals focus on improving the health and well-being of Britain’s children. By advocating for free school meals, restrictions on junk food advertising, and the development of cooking skills, Oliver aims to protect vulnerable children and equip all young people with the tools necessary for a healthy and successful future.
