PRACTICAL COOKING LESSONS IN SCHOOLS

Early day motion 1816, tabled 17 May 2011 by Lord Goldsmith of Richmond Park (Conservative). Signed by 79 members.

That this House recognises the importance of people having the knowledge, life skills and abilities to make healthy choices for themselves and their families; notes that research shows that practical cooking skills are vital to understanding the importance and make up of a healthy diet; expresses concern that without such skills and knowledge, people do not have the freedom to exercise meaningful control over their diet and food intake and tend to over-rely on pre-prepared or takeaway foods; and so urges the Department for Education to guarantee provision for every secondary school pupil to receive at least 24 hours of practical cooking lessons at Key Stage 3 in its review of the National Curriculum.

Signatures by party: Labour 43, Conservative 16, Liberal Democrat 13, DUP 2, Alliance 1, Green 1, Independent 1, Plaid Cymru 1, Social Democratic and Labour Party 1.