Labour’s plan to impose VAT on private school fees, as suggested by Priyanjali Malik (Letters, 3 October), may result in alienating middle-class voters. However, considering that only 6.5% of students in the UK receive private education, using the term “swathes” seems exaggerated.
Dr. Malik argues that the decision to send children to private schools is solely the parents’ choice. However, a two-tier education system based on wealth affects everyone, negatively impacting the society we all share.
Nick Richards
Burnham-on-Sea, Somerset
State education contributes to a more civilized society and a better-educated workforce, benefiting us economically and socially. Similarly, taxation funds essential services such as the police force (ensuring safer streets) and refuse collection (reducing disease). Therefore, if Priyanjali Malik chooses to buy privilege for her children by paying private school fees, it seems reasonable to charge VAT on this expenditure.
Stewart Goacher
Loughborough, Leicestershire
Dr. Priyanjali Malik suggests that applying VAT on school fees could be extended to private medical care as well. This way, private healthcare users would contribute to supporting the struggling NHS. Given that private medical care relies on NHS doctors and facilities, it seems logical for users of such services to repay these resources through VAT, ultimately benefiting the NHS.
Ian Bourne
London
While some families make sacrifices to send their children to independent schools, others struggle to provide basic necessities. It’s important to consider the hardships faced by those who have difficulty affording even the essentials.
Chris Jones
Bewdley, Worcestershire
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