Free school meals communications with Green Members of Parliament: FOI release

Information requested

Details of any communications between Green Members of Parliament and the Education Secretary and her officials since January 1st 2023 where the topic discussed was free school meals - this includes copies of emails, letters, details of in person or online meetings, texts, messages on encrypted phone apps - plus any ministerial briefings, agendas and notes.

Response

I have enclosed a copy of some of the information you have requested.

While our aim is to provide information whenever possible, in this instance we are unable to provide some of the information you have requested because exemptions under sections 30(b)(i) of (the free and frank provision of advice) and 38(1)(b) (personal information) of FOISA, which applies to that information.

Exemptions under section 30(b)(i) are subject to the 'public interest test'. Therefore, taking account of all the circumstances of this case, we have considered if the public interest in disclosing the information outweighs the public interest in applying the exemption. We have found that, on balance, the public interest lies in favour of upholding the exemption. We recognise that there is some public interest in release due to the general public interest in relation to school meals policy. However, this is outweighed by the public interest in allowing a private space for officials and ministers to exchange views, provide advice, and develop policy.

About FOI

The Scottish Government is committed to publishing all information released in response to Freedom of Information requests. View all FOI responses at https://www.gov.scot/foi-responses.

FOI 202500456742 - Information released - Documents

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