Labour protesters take holiday meals demo to Tory MP’s office
LABOUR PARTY members gathered outside the office of the only Conservative MP in Sheffield as part of the campaign to provide free school meals to vulnerable children.
A crowd of more than 20, wearing face coverings, gathered at the office of Miriam Cates, MP for Penistone and Stocksbridge.
They held banners and paper plates bearing messages including “You betrayed us”, “You let us down” and “Miriam Cates, they need food on their plate”.
It comes after the Conservatives last week voted down a Labour motion to extend free school meals in holidays until Easter 2021.
Lee Rock, Sheffield Labour Left convenor, said: “Miriam Cates needs to recognise that leaving poor children without food is an appalling failure of Government.”
Speaking about the protest, Ms
Cates said: “I came into politics to make a difference and to make sure those most in need were given the opportunities others have.
“I doubt there is a single person in this country who would stand by and let a child go hungry and those who suggest otherwise do no service to themselves.”
She added: “It is quite right families and communities come together to find new ways to support each other during this pandemic.
“There is no question the Government should also be expected to play its part, and I think it has.
“I fundamentally believe there are better ways to help those who are facing challenging times than through a supermarket voucher.
“It is far more valuable to put more money in the pockets of families by supporting wages and increasing Universal Credit.
“As each of us faces more restrictions this, alongside the more targeted support provided through local authorities, is the best way to ensure every child is properly fed during the holidays.”
Locally, Sheffield Council said it would provide a free school meals scheme this half term and in the Christmas holidays. For information on how to access the scheme, visit the council website.