Lib Dems call for urgent child benefit uplift to cover gaps in “deeply flawed” free school meal voucher scheme
The Liberal Democrats are calling for the “deeply flawed” voucher scheme for administering free school meals during the lockdown to be bolstered by cash to families, in the form of an uplift in child benefit of £150 per week per child, and £100 for every subsequent child in the family. Liberal Democrat Education Spokesperson Layla Moran has warned the flaws meant that “many vulnerable children are still falling through the cracks and going hungry.” According to the Liberal Demcorats, many parents in rural areas currently have no shop near them that is part of the scheme, and that the complex process for the vouchers disadvantaged families with low incomes and poor internet connectivity. The call comes after MPs on the Education Committee criticised the scheme heavily yesterday. Liberal Democrat Education Spokesperson Layla Moran…