THE Scottish government was slammed by trade unionists today for opting not to introduce universal free school meals in its programme for government this parliamentary year. 

Representatives from the STUC women’s committee branded the Scottish government hypocritical for claiming to be committed to eradicating child poverty and choosing not to introduce universal free school meals (UFSM) to all. 

On Tuesday the Scottish government unveiled its programme for government, which outlined its priorities and legislative plans for the coming year. 

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said that the programme sets out clear plans to lead Scotland out of the greatest health crisis in a century and transform the lives of those who live there.

The committee has written to ministers, claiming the decision to omit UFSM will contribute to the continued escalation of poverty, food insecurity and hunger experienced by children and families in Scotland.

STUC women’s committee chair Brenda Carson said: “After 14 years in power, it is disgraceful that the Scottish government is failing to use every resource possible to eradicate the poverty experienced by thousands upon thousands of children and young people. 

“When there is political will there is always a way.”

The criticism comes as the Scottish government confirmed work on a publicly owned Scottish energy company had been halted. 

In a statement, the government said that ministers will now focus their efforts on a new dedicated national public energy agency.

Scottish Labour’s Monica Lennon said that the decision represented an “embarrassing downgrade and a complete lack of ambition.”

The MSP said that a real public energy company has the potential to transform energy production in Scotland and drive forward the renewable revolution, claiming we will be landed with yet another toothless government body instead.