MARCUS RASHFORD’S petition to expand the current free school meals scheme has already got more than 200,000 signatures.

He is continuing the campaign, despite Boris Johnson’s rejection of the idea earlier this week. 

The campaign hopes to help an estimated one million additional children.

His petition focuses on three key policy recommendations:

• The expansion of free school meals to all under-16s, if one of their parents receives Universal Credit or equivalent benefits
• Free school meals to be provided during all holidays
• The increase of Healthy Start vouchers from £3.10 to £4.25 a week

Healthy Start vouchers are given to pregnant mothers who need assistance. They help with the cost of milk and other produce.

On Twitter, the Manchester United footballer wrote: “This is a matter of urgency to stabilise the households of millions – unemployment, end of furlough, personal loss, illness…200k signatures – the British people care. I would urge those in power to demonstrate that they do too…” 

Downing Street announced that they would not be taking further action.

A representative for Boris Johnson said: “We took that decision to extend free school meals during the pandemic when schools were partially closed during lockdown. We’re in a different position now with schools back open to all pupils.

“It’s not for schools to regularly provide food to pupils during the school holidays. We believe the best way to support families outside of term time is through universal credit rather than government subsidising meals.”

You can sign the petition here.

Rashford was recently awarded an MBE for his services to vulnerable children.