Hertford and Stortford Labour calls for answers after Tory MP Julie Marson votes against extending free school meals
Bishop's Stortford's MP Julie Marson is under fire from the local branch of the Labour Party after she voted against extending free school meals.
The Hertford and Stortford Conservative was one of 319 who voted against a Labour motion in the House of Commons to provide food during school holidays until next Easter to some of the country's most deprived children.
Her Harlow colleague, Robert Halfon, was one of five Tory rebels who voted with the opposition on Wednesday night (Oct 21), but the 260 in favour of campaigning England and Manchester United footballer Marcus Rashford's support plans were defeated by the Government supporters.
Hertford and Stortford Labour Party has issued an angry statement about Mrs Marson's decision and challenged her to answer a series of questions.
She stands accused of voting against feeding 1.4 million vulnerable children this winter at a time when 32% of families have seen a drop in their income since the start of the pandemic and an extra 900,000 pupils have registered for free school meals.
Josh Dean, Hertford & Stortford Labour's youth officer, said: " On Tuesday, Julie Marson gave a speech saying she’d do all she could for malnourished children , but a day later she voted to take food off their tables this winter.
"I want to see Julie Marson look in the eye of a struggling family in our community – or any community – and try to explain why she voted against keeping their children fed."
Hertford & Stortford Labour Party wants Mrs Marson to say why she voted against extending free holiday school meals this winter in spite of calls from cross-party MPs, charities and campaigners, and what she will be doing to support those members of the Hertford and Stortford community denied vital support this winter.
The Indie has asked Mrs Marson, elected in last December's General Election, to respond.