It might not be quite the scale of the panic to get stadia ready for the World Cup in Brazil, but as we speak the nation’s primary schools are racing against the clock to get their buildings ready for September when they have to deliver all pupils in reception and years one and two, a free hot school meal. 

The Government’s universal infant free school meals (UIFSM) should be cause for congratulation – surely no own goals here from deputy prime minister Nick Clegg?  After all, the Government has provided £150m capital funding for all local authority maintained schools to cover the costs of new kitchens and increased capacity; councils will receive funding for each meal provided. 

To top it all, it will create new jobs, a  ‘huge boost for the school catering industry’.  No wonder Local Authority Caterers Association chair Anne Bull is ‘absolutely delighted’.