The government's free-fruit-for-schools scheme is to be extended to include vegetables, after lobbying by the UK industry.

Michael Paske, vice-president of the National Farmers Union, which along with the Fresh Produce Consortium has consistently argued for vegetables to be part of the project, welcomed today's announcement (December 17).

'We have been pushing for vegetables to be included in the scheme for some time. British growers have an array of mouth-watering produce on offer from carrots to celery to tomatoes. It is extremely encouraging that the government has announced it will include these sorts of fresh vegetables in the scheme.' Rollout of the department of health project to provide a free piece of portion of fresh produce to all schoolchildren between the ages of four and six begins next year. Pilot schemes have already taken place successfully in London and Leicester.

Companies wanting an application for the fruit for schools scheme should contact one of the two following fax numbers, or send an email: Bob Collins: FAX: 0207 972 1375 Email: bob.collins@doh.gsi.gov.uk Mike Tiddy FAX: 0118 980 8879 Email: mike.tiddy@doh.gsi.gov.uk All companies involved in the supply and distribution of fresh produce are eligible to apply. The closing date for expressions of interest is January 8.

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