Primary school children in Penarth and across Wales will be offered free school meals as part of a new scheme by Welsh Government and Plaid Cymru.

More than £25 million has been invested to kick-start the initiative. From September this year, some of the youngest children will start receiving free school meals as the policy is introduced in phases.

Working with schools and local authorities, the Welsh Government will plan and prepare the infrastructure needed for all primary pupils to receive free school meals by September 2024.

Revenue funding of up to £200 million has been set aside for local authorities to put this commitment in place, with £40 million to be distributed in 2022-23, £70 million in 2023-24 and £90 million in 2024-25.

First Minister Mark Drakeford said: "Together we have made a joint commitment that no child in Wales should go hungry and that every child in our primary schools will be able to have a free school meal.

"We are facing an unprecedented cost-of-living crisis. We know younger children are more likely to be living in relative income poverty, which is why the youngest of our learners will be the first to benefit.

He continued: "This cost-of-living crisis is being felt by families all over Wales – extending free school meals is one of a number of measures we are taking to support families through this difficult time."

Adam Price, leader of Plaid Cymru, added: "Removing the stigma associated with having a free lunch will mean that children receive a healthy meal at a formative stage in their development - hungry children cannot learn or achieve their true potential.

"Together, we're delivering for Wales and making a difference."