Internet Access (Children Eligible for Free School Meals) Bill

Key Points

• - Creates a legal duty on the Secretary of State to guarantee home internet access for all children eligible for free school meals.
• - Covers both a broadband connection and facilities to access the internet at home (such as devices or other necessary support).
• - Aims to reduce digital poverty and support educational attainment by ensuring disadvantaged children can access online learning from home.
• - Has cross-cutting implications for education, housing, transport and technology policy, and for schools, local authorities and providers involved in delivery.
• - The Bill is a Private Members’ Bill currently at the Second Reading in the House of Commons; if it progresses, it would move to detailed scrutiny in Committee, then potentially proceed to the Lords.

Progress

The Bill is at the Second Reading in the House of Commons. If it passes this stage, it will move to Committee for detailed examination, and, if successful, proceed through the Lords and further stages.