BORIS Johnson spoke with footballer Marcus Rashford today to congratulate him on his campaign to get kids free school meals vouchers over the summer.
The PM revealed he had chatted with the Manchester United striker this afternoon following his u-turn over giving kids extra help with food over the school holidays.
Rashford has been campaigning for the Government to change their minds after it was revealed that the £15 a week supermarket voucher system would stop at the end of term.
Usually it does not run through the holidays but ministers had made an exception for the half term and Easter breaks – because of the coronavirus pandemic.
The PM said today he was only aware of the footie star’s campaign earlier today.
Boris told this evening’s press conference: “I talked to Marcus today and congratulated him on his campaign.
“I thank him for what he has done, I think he is right to draw attention to this issue.
“It is right that we should be looking after the families of the most vulnerable and neediest right now, that is why we have the Covid summer food plan. I hope it will make a big difference to those kids and those families.”
A one off six-week voucher will be dished out for families to use in supermarkets.
Marcus tweeted after the news: “I don’t even know what to say. Just look at what we can do when we come together, THIS is England in 2020.”
Boris told the Cabinet this morning the news – which will cost £120million in extra funding.
“This was never about me or you, this was never about politics, this was a cry out for help from vulnerable parents all over the country and I simply provided a platform for their voices to be heard,” he wrote in the statement shared on social media.
“I stand proud today knowing that we have listened, and we have done what is right.
“There is still a long way to go but I am thankful to you all that we have given these families just one less thing to worry about tonight.
“The wellbeing of our children should ALWAYS be a priority.”
MPs and celebrities came out to praise the footballer for his campaign and for forcing the PM’s hand.
Robert Halfon MP wrote for the Sun this afternoon to praise the news. He said: “Boris the Bold has turned the game around – and scored a winning goal.
“It’s a move that will benefit millions of disadvantaged families. And it couldn’t come at a greater time of need: with our nation on the brink of the worst ever ‘holiday hunger’.
And George Freeman tweeted: “Democracy. It’s a beautiful thing. When it works. Well done @MarcusRashford. Delighted.
