Marcus Rashford’s campaign to help feed hungry kids in England has been successful, as the government has now made a u-turn.
Now pupils in England and Scotland from poor backgrounds will be able to get meal vouchers over the summer holidays.
Downing Street has announced a huge u-turn, after yesterday rejecting the footballer’s campaign, which was supported by Labour as well as some Tory MPs.
The Prime Minister’s spokesman told journalists today: “Owing to the coronavirus pandemic, the prime minister fully understands that children and parents face an entirely unprecedented situation over the summer.
“To reflect this, we will be providing a Covid summer food fund. This will provide food vouchers covering the six week holiday period. Full details will be set out shortly, but this is a specific measure to reflect the unique circumstances of the pandemic.
“The scheme will not continue beyond the summer and those eligible will be those who already qualify for free school meals. As the PM has said it is our intention, to get all pupils back into school in September.
“Payment will be through vouchers and most likely it will be a one-off six week voucher given to eligible families at the end of term to use in supermarkets.”
Nicola Sturgeon also confirmed today that free school meals will be extended in Scotland over the summer holidays, for all eligible children.
