Marcus Rashford’s new challenge to Boris Johnson over child food poverty

The Manchester United striker endorsed an editorial by this newspaper which suggested that both he – and the Government – should be on the same side on such an important issue.

He tweeted: “And I agree @yorkshirepost. Would love to see Number 10 as part of the Child Food Poverty Task Force. The invitation is always open...”

Mr Rashford, who successfully campaigned for free school meals to be reinstated for disadvantaged youngsters during the recent summer holidays, finished his message with the hashtag #Endchildfoodpoverty.

The footballer, who grew up in poverty, has now teamed up with food producers – and others – to champion projects working to provide healthy meals for disadvantaged youngsters.

Yet, while he spoke to the Prime Minister over free school meals, there’s no indication that Mr Johnson will join the star striker’s task force. A 10 Downing Street spokesperson said: “We are taking substantial action to make sure no child goes hungry during the pandemic, and continue to support those in need.

“Our national voucher scheme supported children eligible for free school meals while they were at home, and the Covid Summer Fund ensured families continued to receive support over the summer.

“Thousands of disadvantaged children also benefited from meals and activities through the Holiday Activity and Food programme and the National School Breakfast programme, which were extended over summer. We will carefully consider the food task force’s recommendations as we approach the next Spending Review.”

Meanwhile Helen Barnard, acting chief executive of the York-based Joseph Rowntree Foundation, praises the player in Friday’s edition for “a masterclass in how to energise the public” on the issue of child poverty.

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James Mitchinson