Cotswold MP Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown has explained why he didn't vote on a motion to extend free school meals over the holidays.

England football star Marcus Rashford’s bid to extend free school meals over the holidays was dealt a blow after MPs voted against the measure on Wednesday night.

Manchester United player Marcus Rashford urged politicians to “unite” to protect the most vulnerable children and vowed to continue campaigning, writing on Twitter: “For as long as they don’t have a voice, they will have mine.”

He released a statement after Labour’s motion, which called for the scheme to be extended over school holidays until Easter 2021, was defeated by 261 votes to 322 – a majority of 61.

Sir Geoffrey said: "I was slipped long before these debates were scheduled for Public Accounts Committee work.

"Free School Meals have only ever been for supporting children while learning.

"During the holidays families must have a robust safety net, at the start of the pandemic key benefits were boosted by over £1,000 per year for 12 months, part of a £9.3bn increase.

"A £63m fund has been provided for councils to help local families and £16m has been awarded to food charities.

"MPs backed the existing package worth billions, free school meal eligibility was extended to 50,000 more children, with other programmes like breakfast clubs expanded as well."

MPs also voted on a second motion - Additional Covid-19 Restrictions: Fair Economic Support.

The motion, put forward by the Labour Party, called for a 'fair one nation deal' to give areas being moved into higher local restrictions the financial support they need to support businesses and workers affected.

It included increasing furlough payments to workers from 66 per cent to 80 per cent and giving additional support to businesses which may have to close or would lose business.

It followed the breakdown in negotiations between the Government and Greater Manchester, with Labour leader Keir Starmer accusing the Government of treating the North with "contempt".

The motion was voted down by 340 votes to 261.

Sir Geoffrey added: "Regarding the 'Additional Covid-19 restrictions vote', financial support needs to be targeted, and the Chancellor has announced three extra measures to support businesses through winter.

"I do not support another full national lockdown, the level of infection in Gloucestershire remains mercifully low compared to other areas.

"I think a localised approach is best suited in reducing transmission while protecting businesses and jobs."