John Key MP
National Party Leader

3 February 2007

National launches its Food in Schools programme

National Party Leader John Key has announced the first initiative in what will be a National Food in Schools programme.
"National is committed to providing practical solutions to the problems which Helen Clark says don’t exist," says Mr Key.

During his State of the Nation speech on Tuesday, Mr Key indicated National would seek to introduce a food in schools programme at our poorest schools in partnership with the business community.

Mr Key has since received an approach from Auckland-based company Tasti foods.
"I approached Wesley Primary School yesterday, a decile 1 school near McGehan Close, a street that has had more than its fair share of problems in recent times. I am told Wesley Primary, like so many schools in New Zealand, has too many kids turning up hungry.

"We’re putting Tasti and Wesley Primary together. This is a fantastic first step. In addition to this, Tasti has indicated they may wish to expand their generous donation of food to other schools in need, and we’ll be looking to facilitate that.

"We all instinctively know that hungry kids aren’t happy and healthy kids."
Mr Key is also inviting other businesses to contact National so it can work on expanding the programme.
"I want this to be the first of many schools and businesses that we put together.
“I’m interested in what works and I am humbled by the support this idea has received already.
"We are going to put together the package while in Opposition. We are not waiting to be in Government, because all our kids deserve better."

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