Tower Hamlets

In a statement on social media, the pair also called for charges to be dropped against Christopher Nineham, 63, of Tower Hamlets, and Benjamin Jamal, 61, who are facing trial next month on public order charges following the protest.

Lutfur Rahman, mayor of Tower Hamlets, said it would "go some way" to support children in the borough, while Mohi, a local parent, said school uniform costs were a "matter of worry" for himself and his family.

Tower Hamlets Council announced the school universal uniform grant earlier this year.

Earlier this month, Tower Hamlets councillors voted unanimously to reject plans for the new Chinese embassy.

The plans were approved by the City of London Corporation on Friday but some consultees remain opposed to the plans, including Historic England and Tower Hamlets Council.