BROMSGROVE MP Sajid Javid has today spoken out on why he voted against a bid to get the nation’s most vulnerable children free school meals this winter.
The ‘Marcus Rashford’ Opposition Motion to extend free school meals was voted down by the ruling Conservatives 322 votes to 261 on Wednesday.
The Labour motion, backed by the Manchester United footballer, urged the Government to provide 1.4 million disadvantaged children in England with £15 a week in food vouchers during holidays until Easter 2021.
Speaking to the Standard today at Bromsgrove’s Birdbox, Mr Javid said: “What we need to do as a government, and are doing, is making sure the most vulnerable people are protected and looked after during this difficult time.
“I am comfortable with the approach that the Government is taking, which is when 99 per cent of children are back at school – which is great to see -those who are entitled to free school meals get them. As they should.”
Mr Javid added that families who are struggling because of the coronavirus crisis are being supported in a ‘focused and targeted way’.
“That is what’s being done with the increase to Universal Credit which has cost billions,” he said.
“I believe in very targeted support outside of school – no one wants to see anyone go hungry – and making sure in school that those who need it get their free school meals.”
