Armed Forces Exodus Feared Over Labour’s VAT Policy on Private Education, Shadow Defence Secretary Claims

Shadow Defence Secretary James Cartlidge stated on Sky News that Labour's intention to impose VAT on private schools might lead to resignations within the armed forces. He argued that the proposed tax on education could prompt military personnel to rethink their careers since it does not exempt military families.

Political correspondent Alix Culbertson

Monday, October 14, 2024, 7:

The shadow defense secretary has cautioned that the government's decision not to waive the 20% VAT on private schooling for military families might lead to resignations among the personnel.

Addressing the assembly on Monday, Defense Secretary John Healey declined to exempt military families from the policy set to start in January.

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When questioned by James Cartlidge, the Conservative shadow defence secretary, Mr. Healey indicated that the government is "carefully examining" ways to maintain support for military families' boarding school fee contributions as a component of their benefits package.

Mr. Cartlidge spoke to Sky News about numerous families who, despite not qualifying for the Continuity of Education Allowance (CEA), must enroll their children in boarding schools due to frequent relocations but find it financially challenging.

He stated that if military staff are required to cover the "steep hikes… due to the ideological choices of this administration", it might push seasoned members to resign.

Parents applying for the Child Education Allowance are required to pay at least 10% of the tuition fees and cover additional costs including uniforms, music lessons, and weekend programs.

The requirements specify:

• Kids need to be eight years or older

• There should be an anticipated move for the family within four years

• The household should continue to reside as a unit

• Families should commit to maintaining consistent schooling for the child through the completion of their present educational phase

• Children should be enrolled in the appropriate grade for their age.

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Mr. Cartlidge expressed to Sky News, "Military families may become victims due to Labour's politics of envy driven by ideology."

Amid increasing national security challenges and the critical necessity to enhance retention within the military, the Labour Party is persistently advancing a tax on education, compelling many serving members to rethink their career paths.

"It's evident that Labour hasn't fully considered the implications of this policy. They need to promptly revise their stance and provide a VAT exemption on education for military families without delay."

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