Labour's VAT proposal on private school fees faces criticism and uncertainty

Labour plans to impose 20% VAT on private school fees if elected, potentially raising £1.7bn for state schools.
The policy would end tax breaks for private schools and could increase fees by 20% starting in the 2025-26 academic year.
Critics argue the policy may force 40,000-90,000 students into state schools and lead to potential closures of smaller independents.
Private schools warn of negative impacts on diversity efforts and contributions to the economy and jobs.
Labour has now abandoned initial plans to also strip private schools of charitable status due to legal complications.