Question to the Department for Education:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the number of children who have left private education and enrolled in state-funded education following the application of VAT on school fees.

The published tax information and impact note on VAT includes impact on pupil movement, with any movement into the state sector estimated to be equivalent to fewer than 0.1% of pupils this academic year.

All children of compulsory school age are entitled to a state-funded school place. Local authorities are responsible for ensuring sufficient state school places. The department already works with local authorities to identify pressures and take action where necessary.