Thought for food as consultation launched on historic first Private Member's Assembly Measure.

1.17.50pm GMT Fri 18th Jan 2008

Jenny Randerson's ,easure is the first to be introduced by a private member

Today sees the launch of the consultation on the National Assembly's first ever Private Member's Measure. Jenny Randerson, Welsh Liberal Democrat AM for Cardiff Central wants to raise standards of nutrition in school food.

The consultation process will last for six weeks and will invite responses from schools and their pupils, health and nutrition organisations and interested individuals, before being scrutinised by committee in the Assembly. Jenny Randerson met with the Minister for Education this week who has previously indicated support in principle for the Measure.

Jenny Randerson said: I am delighted that I have the honour of presenting the first Private Member's Measure in the history of the Assembly. For many months I have been working on this, visiting schools to see best practice, meeting with organisations and individuals and working on various drafts. I am delighted that things have now reached the consultation stage and the prospect of this becoming law has moved a step closer.

"Children's nutrition is something that needs urgently addressing if we are to deal with the twin dangers of obesity and poor health. I'm pleased that pupils will be included in the consultation. We have to offer food they want to eat if this is to be successful. I am glad that I have the opportunity of using the Assembly's new law-making powers to make a real difference to the future health of Wales.

"The National Assembly is developing slowly but surely into an institution with the powers to make a real positive difference to people's lives and I hope that my Measure will be seen as a step forward in this process."

Notes:

1. The consultation period runs from 18/1/08 until 29/2/08 and will invite responses from almost 60 organisations and groups as well as head-teachers and pupils of schools across Wales.

2. Jenny Randerson met with Jane Hutt, Minister for Education this week to discuss the drafts and process.

3. A copy of the consultation document and list of consultees is available through this office.

4. Interviews with Jenny Randerson are available through this office

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