This is absolutely not the case in France where discussing over a meal is a very strong cultural trait. Schools are trying to dial down the noise in canteens b

This is absolutely not the case in France where discussing over a meal is a very strong cultural trait. Schools are trying to dial down the noise in canteens but that's all. Having someone eating in silence would be a form of punition. It is also interesting how heated the discussions over meals can become (for adults), where you discuss politics, religion, sex stuff and whatnot and people can get deeply engaged. And then the meal ends and so does the discussion (or drama) ,as if it never happened. This is usually store disturbing/surprising to foreigners who are not used to such a separation.