During last month's general election campaign the Conservatives pledged to scrap the provision of free lunches to all infants and instead offer free breakfasts for all primary school pupils.
But speaking in the House of Commons, schools minister Nick Gibb confirmed that the government had backtracked on the plans after taking into account opposition from those in the education sector.
"We have listened very carefully to the views of the sector on the proposal to remove infant free school meals and we have decided that it is right to retain the existing provision," Gibb told MPs.
"Universal infant free school meals ensure that children receive a nutritious meal during the day. It saves hardworking families hundreds of pounds a year and it boosts educational achievement, especially amongst children from the most disadvantaged backgrounds."
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