The UK government's VAT policy on private school fees is facing judicial review due to claims of discrimination against children with special educational needs. The government argues that this policy would enhance fairness in the tax system and raise necessary funds for public education. While consultations were conducted on potential exemptions, they were rejected as administratively burdensome. Critics, including parents and advocacy groups, argue this policy contradicts human rights obligations and disproportionately affects certain educational institutions, particularly low-paying faith schools, as well as families with special needs children.
The government defends its VAT policy on private school fees as a necessary step to ensure fairness in the tax system and improve funding for public education.
The judicial review is spearheaded by parents and advocates claiming the VAT policy discriminates against children with special educational needs and undermines human rights law.
Senior barrister Sir James Eadie argued that the government is not obliged to subsidise private education, emphasizing the goal of raising revenue for state education.
The policy, which claims to enhance educational standards for 94% of children attending state schools, faced opposition regarding its impact on low-paying faith schools.
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