The NFU has lobbied the UK government to support this scheme and is pleased to see the final European step towards implementation in August 2017.
Under the revised proposals, the existing Fruit and Vegetables Scheme and School Milk Scheme will merge into one larger programme with an increased budget of 250m Euros, with the UK’s allocation increasing from the last review of the programme.
It has been a lengthy process of approval and European farm ministers met on Monday 11 April, voting to adopt the new measure. The UK abstained from the vote, despite supporting the newly approved scheme.
Why did the UK abstain?
“The UK Government traditionally objects to any 'over extension' of European influence. It often abstains on principle in order to make the point that national governments should be allowed to determine how to implement legislation, rather than leaving it as a European competence. In this case, while it supports the notion of the schemes, the UK abstained as it objected to the European Parliament having too much power on technical details”
Last year it was announced that cheese, yoghurt and some flavoured milks could be permitted for inclusion, alongside regular white milk (which is part of the existing scheme). The health authority within the UK would need to approve eligible products for distribution in schools across the country. The new scheme will also feature a strengthened emphasis on educational measures, including farm visits.
NFU comment
NFU dairy adviser Rosie Maltby said: "We are all too aware that young people are eating fewer dairy products and the NFU has been working hard both in Brussels and with other UK stakeholders as part of the School and Nursery Milk Alliance to monitor and push for progress towards 2017 for implementation of the scheme.
“This final seal for the regulation moves us closer to the need for practical implementation decisions to be made in the UK and the NFU will continue to work closely with Defra, lobbying to improve access to high quality, nutritious British dairy products for our children in schools. Not only does the scheme help to improve the nutritional profile of children’s snacks and meals, but it also helps to shape consumption trends for the future.”