The Finance Minister has acknowledged the Government's new cut-price regime for school lunches has issues - but indicated parents can also step up and contribute.

A number of schools throughout the country have complained about late deliveries and sub-standard offerings under the new system.

Nicola Willis says she expects the contractors to improve their service, but she's also reminding mums and dads that they can do their part. 

"There's nothing to stop them from putting a Vegemite sandwich and a banana in their children's school bag. Actually, that's why we have a welfare system in this country - so that every family raising children has a minimum level of income needed to deliver their needs. I think we do need to get away from the idea that the Government does everything."

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The Finance Minister has acknowledged the Government's new cut-price regime for school lunches has issues - but indicated parents can also step up and contribute.
A number of schools throughout the country have complained about late deliveries and sub-standard offerings under the new system.
Nicola Willis says she expects the contractors to improve their service, but she's also reminding mums and dads that they can do their part.&nbsp;
"There's nothing to stop them from putting a Vegemite sandwich and a banana in their children's school bag. Actually, that's why we have a welfare system in this country - so that every family raising children has a minimum level of income needed to deliver their needs. I think we do need to get away from the idea that the Government does everything."
LISTEN ABOVE

With a straight down the middle approach, Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive on Newstalk ZB delivers the very latest news and views to New Zealanders as they wrap up their day.

Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive

Nicola Willis: Finance Minister addresses negative feedback to school lunch regime

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/2b135abc-784d-4ba0-8b15-b29500673099/transcript