MP criticised Voting record is highlighted after foodbank visit
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MP Alex Chalk has been criticised for visiting a foodbank and “looking sad” after voting to cut welfare spending.
Mr Chalk visited Cheltenham Foodbank , in St George’s Road and spoke out on how families who rely on free school meals often struggle during the summer holidays.
During the visit he said: “I sympathise wholeheartedly. It’s not easy. Life can be a struggle.
“Food can be expensive. Bills are expensive.
“But evidence is being looked at. The Department for Education is looking at the issue.
“There is a need out there and it’s absolutely right that the Government takes steps to address it.”
But Cheltenham borough councillor Max Wilkinson (LD, Oakley) has called on the MP to “take responsibility for his callous voting record instead of visiting local charities looking sad”.
Mr Chalk has consistently voted to cut spending on welfare benefits, according to a record compiled by Theyworkforyou.com.
Mr Wilkinson, the Lib Dems’ prospective parliamentary candidate, said: “If the Tories are so concerned about hungry children and vulnerable people, why are they continuing to cut support for the most needy in society?
“It’s very nice for Alex to visit charities, put on a sad face and congratulate volunteers, but it would be even better if he stopped voting to cut support for the most vulnerable in society.”
Cheltenham’s Labour party chairman Malcolm Bride said: “To see Alex Chalk grabbing a PR opportunity to wring his hands over Cheltenham’s hungry children is more than a bit rich.
“The Conservatives are responsible for the misery inflicted upon families throughout the nation after eight years of heartless austerity policies.
“And for most of that time they were aided and abetted by the Lib Dems in coalition.”
A Conservative party spokesman pointed to Mr Chalk backing a £1million fund to help Gloucestershire’s long-term rough sleepers.
The spokesman said Mr Chalk has supported a £2million programme for healthy meals and activities for poorer children across the country.
“These desperate personal attacks on Cheltenham’s hard working MP are petty and do the Lib Dems no credit,” they added.
“Alex Chalk has backed bold measures to support disadvantaged people.
“Let’s not forget that the Lib Dems in Government voted to cut welfare spending by £21billion, introduced the bedroom tax and the infamous increase in tuition fees.” conor.gogarty@reachplc.com