Labour's Plan to End Private School Tax Breaks Faces Intense Scrutiny

Keir Starmer's proposal to add VAT to private school fees sparks debate over educational and financial impacts.

Labour aims to generate £1.5bn annually by removing tax exemptions for private schools, funding 6,500 new teachers and mental health support staff.
Critics argue the policy could force many pupils into the state system, overwhelming already full grammar schools and increasing state education costs.
Supporters claim the policy addresses a fundamental unfairness, with private school fees currently exempt from VAT, benefiting the wealthiest families.
The Institute for Fiscal Studies predicts a limited impact on private school attendance, contrary to more alarming forecasts from some sectors.
Labour insists that the policy will be implemented immediately if the party wins the upcoming general election.