Speaking in Parliament as a Shadow Treasury Minister, James opposed the government’s plans in the Finance Bill to apply VAT to independent school fees.
James highlighted that this is the first time education is being taxed and undermines the principle that education is a public good.
The new tax on independent school fees will particularly hit parents in modest incomes who have chosen a school they think best suits their child. Pupils will SEND without an Education, Health, and Care Plan will be subject to VAT. Small schools and faith schools will particularly suffer.
James concludes that this new education tax is damaging and unfair and the Conservatives once again voted against it.
Speaking in Parliament James said:
“Sadly, this cruel tax, which is being imposed midway through the academic year, will damage the education of thousands of pupils. It is sadly typical of the ideological approach that we have seen the new Government take on education, where they are trashing the record of schools, pupils, teachers and governors over the past 14 years when we rose up the international league tables.”
“The Opposition are deeply concerned about the impact the tax will have on pupils with special educational needs, small rural schools, faith schools and schools taking part in the music and dance scheme. We have consistently warned of the damage it will do to young people’s education, and we voted against the measures in the Budget resolutions.”
