Report backing Labour's private school VAT policy written by minister's close friend

Critics have raised concerns over the close friendship between Luke Sibieta and Matthew Pennycook, questioning potential conflicts of interest with the VAT on private school fees.

The report by Luke Sibieta projected a net gain of between £1.3 billion and £1.5 billion for public finances. However, opponents believe that they are overly optimistic about pupil migration.

Sibieta's analysis indicated that the VAT would push 20,000 to 40,000 pupils into state schools, a shift which could destabilize the private school sector further.

The Independent Schools Council expressed concerns that the predicted number of pupils leaving private schools might exceed Sibieta's estimates, suggesting potential revenue shortfalls.

Read at Business Matters