VALE MP Alun Cairns has defended his decision to vote ‘no’ to an opposition motion to extend free school meals provision in England throughout the holidays until Easter 2021.

MPs voted in the House of Commons, London, on October 21 with 322 rejecting the proposal and 261 believing the scheme should continue.

Education is a devolved issue, but MPs throughout the United Kingdom are entitled to have a say.

Manchester United and England footballer Marcus Rashford has vowed to continue with his campaign.

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Vale MP Alun Cairns said: “There is much misinformation circulating on this issue.

“The motion was a political stunt that caused more confusion than anything else.

“Contrary to the claims, I have not voted to take free school meals from children.

“If the motion had passed, it would have changed nothing.

“I am focussing on taking positive steps to help people in need and I have been in meetings with ministers all week to discuss sustainable, long term solutions.

“I am pleased to see that benefits have been increased significantly to support the most vulnerable but recognise that we can always do more.

“I am passionate about supporting those in need and I will continue to fight for the most vulnerable in our communities through practical solutions.”

Following the UK parliament vote, Mr Rashford posted his response on social media.

He said: "A significant number of children are going to bed tonight not only hungry but feeling like they do not matter because of the comments made today."

"We must stop stigmatising, judging and pointing fingers," he said. “This is not politics, this is humanity.”

Prime minister, Boris Johnson said the free school meals policy would not be changed because the benefit system supported families.

Earlier this year, Rashford's campaign had led to the government changing its mind and continue a food voucher scheme in England during the summer holidays.

The Welsh Government has said it plans to provide free school meals for all school holidays up to and including Easter 2021.

First minister, Mark Drakeford said on Twitter: “In Wales, we’ve provided £11m to provide #FreeSchoolMeals through school holidays to Easter 2021.

“We support you in your campaign to see this happen right across the UK.

“As you say, this is not politics.

“This is humanity.”

To see how MPs voted, visit https://votes.parliament.uk/Votes/Commons/Division/896#noes