Islington Labour last night (Thursday 26 February) passed a groundbreaking budget to introduce free school meals for all children at primary schools and nurseries.

The measure was contained in the opposition's budget amendment, passed 24 votes to 22, after the borough's Liberal Democrat administration's majority collapsed in the Council chamber.

The budget also included proposals for free gym and exercise classes for teenagers and a hundred pound council tax discount for pensioners aged 65 and over.

The scheme was funded by sweeping savings from the Council communications budget, slashing councillors' salaries and efficiency savings designed to safeguard front line services.

The free school meals scheme is modelled on a successful pilot that was held in Hull City Council between 2004 to 2007.  Independent research from the Institute for Learning at the University of Hull, found universal free school meals promotes good classroom behaviour and attainment, boosts healthy eating habits among the whole family and improves dental health.

It would save a family of two children around £600 per year on school meal costs.

Commenting on the proposals, Cllr Catherine West, Leader of Islington Labour Group, said:

"I am proud that we have passed this budget to help working families in tough economic times.  Free school meals boost learning, they are good for children's health and save hard working parents money.

"We are also giving a helping hand to pensioners with a £100 targeted tax discount. Our budget tonight has gone some way to give support to the people who most need it at this difficult time."

The budget amendment was drafted joinly and passed together with independent former Liberal Democrat Councillor Andrew Cornwell,

The Council meeting descended into chaos, as Leader Council Leader, James Kempton, announced that he would attempt to stop Council tax bills going out.  However, amid extraordinary scenes, including a walk out by the ruling Liberal Democrat group, he was forced to back down and accept the democratic will of the Council.