The Isle of Wight's MP says the Government's u-turn over free school meals is "the right thing to do", as he appeared to backtrack on some of his own comments.
The Government has bowed to pressure and agreed to offer a share of £170 million to councils across the country as part of the COVID Winter Support Grant. The Isle of Wight Council will receive £456,845.
It is hoped the scheme will help families with food costs, heat homes and pay the bills as the second wave of the coronavirus pandemic hits.
The announcement comes a fortnight after a motion to extend free school meals for children was voted down by MPs.
Bob Seely was one of 322 MPs who stood against the plans in Parliament, as Isle of Wight Radio previously reported.
At the time, he said he made the decision not to back footballer Marcus Rashford's campaign because "there is already substantial additional support" available.
However, reacting to the Government's latest u-turn, MP Bob Seely says he is now "delighted" to see extra support granted:
“It is the right thing to do. This package of practical measures complements and improves on the important Free School Meals programme by taking a long-term approach to tackling poor health, hunger and education. For us here, that’s an additional £456,845 going to Island families.
“The funding – to be distributed by local councils - will be ring-fenced, with at least 80% earmarked to support with food and bills providing food for children who need it over the holidays.”
“Local councils understand which groups need support and are best placed to ensure appropriate holiday support is provided – which is why they will distribute the funds. Schools will continue providing meals for disadvantaged children during term-time.”
The Government’s scheme will allow councils to help the hardest-hit families and individuals, as well as provide food for children who need it over the holidays.
It is designed to complement the Free School Meals programme, following the campaign from footballer Marcus Rashford.
Council Leader Dave Stewart said:
“I am extremely encouraged that the Government has come forward to confirm they will be ensuring all qualifying children receive the support of free meals over Christmas and also other holidays in the new year.
“This is good news for the Island as we have many youngsters who will benefit from this additional provision and I am grateful that our MP Bob Seely has offered his support to this programme. It means no Island child should go hungry this Christmas.”
The Isle of Wight Council will receive its share in December.
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