Judges reject appeal claiming VAT on private schools infringes human rights

"We acknowledge that the measure may have a serious impact on the group one claimants if they are unable to afford private education which accords with their religious convictions, but it is important to bear in mind that they have the option of home schooling if free education in the state sector is not acceptable to them."

"The Government had given reasonable reasons for not exempting low-cost private schools from VAT, including that it would have serious detrimental consequences."

The Court of Appeal dismissed an appeal challenging the introduction of VAT on private school fees as incompatible with human rights law. Three judges rejected arguments from schools, students, and parents who claimed the policy violated their rights. The court determined the government provided reasonable justification for not exempting low-cost private schools, noting such exemptions would create serious detrimental consequences. While acknowledging the measure may significantly impact families unable to afford private education aligned with their religious beliefs, the judges emphasized that homeschooling and state sector education remain available alternatives.

Read at www.independent.co.uk