I WAS privileged to be privately educated at Harrow School.
So, you will not be surprised to read that I object to Labour’s plan to impose VAT on independent school fees.
No other form of education attracts this tax.
It’s a self-defeating raid on an area of education that embodies choice, both a parental and Conservative philosophy.
Socialists have long-targeted private schools, despite the fact many of them send their children there.
Why?
Because they rightly want the best for their children, while hypocritically restricting choice for others.
Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ decision was bolstered by the Institute of Fiscal Studies, which has calculated that only 3 to 7 per cent of students will leave the private sector, and that the move will raise up to £1.5 billion for state education.
However, this week, research by the Adam Smith Institute (ASI) found the policy might not raise any money at all.
The ASI believes the decision could not only detrimentally affect children, but also local economies, jobs and house prices.
Independent schools fear losing up to a quarter of their pupils and, already, state schools are under siege by anxious parents, making next year’s intake unpredictable.
How sad that the politics of envy should be allowed to derail the excellence, discipline, prowess in sports and general achievement exemplified by these schools.
Of course, we must endeavour to keep the bar high for all schools.
Katharine Birbalsingh’s exemplary leadership at Michaela School in Wembley is a very real example of that.
For clarity, independent schools exist only because parents effectively pay twice, through their taxes and their fees.
They sacrifice much to get the best for their children and should not be exposed to class warfare.