Marcus Rashford vows to continue his fight for free school meals

Footballer Marcus Rashford has vowed to keep campaigning to extend free school meals, despite politicians rejecting the idea.

MPs voted on Wednesday 21 October against extending the scheme in England throughout the holidays until Easter 2021.

Afterwards, Rashford posted on social media saying: "A significant number of children are going to bed tonight not only hungry but feeling like they do not matter because of the comments made today."

"We must stop stigmatising, judging and pointing fingers," he said.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson had said he would not change his policy on free school meals, because families are supported by the benefit system.

"We support children of low incomes in schools and will continue to do so," he said.

He added that the government would "continue to use the benefit system and all the systems of income support to support young people and children throughout the holidays as well."

But Labour's shadow education secretary, Kate Green. said: "No child should go hungry over the holidays, but the Government is blocking the action needed to prevent this.

"We pay tribute to Marcus Rashford and others for shining a spotlight on this incredibly important issue.

"This campaign is not over and the Government must reconsider."

Rashford has vowed to continue to campaign for free school meals

Earlier this year, Rashford's campaign prompted the government to change its mind and continue a food voucher scheme in England during the summer holidays.

He has even been recognised by the Queen for his campaigning around school dinners, having been made an MBE.

In Wales, the government has announced plans to provide free school meals for all school holidays up to and including Easter 2021.

In Scotland, families will be given food vouchers until next year's Easter holiday, and in Northern Ireland free-school meals will only be provided during term time - but vouchers will be provided during the October half term.