Dear All,

First, thank you so much for your support for Hugh Beckinsale's petition to Parliament against Labour's plans on VAT and business rates for independent school fees.  Over 110,000 people of you signed this petition, which means that Parliament will now consider a debate.  

We will keep you posted!

As children begin their Christmas break, we have a request for them -- some "Holiday homework" to have their voices heard.   Labour have dismissed them as a mere "minority" of children, but the Children's Commissioner's website says she is for "all" children.

The Children's Commissioner, Dame Rachel de Souza, has not responded to any correspondence from ENT. However, we have heard that she will reply to personal letters from children themselves.

If your child is or will be leaving school, or are worried about friends who are leaving or the future of their schools because of Labour's tax, then we encourage them write a heartfelt letter to Dame Rachel that explains:

• Why they feel this policy is unfair.
• How it impacts them personally.
• Their desire for good schools for all children, but why this shouldn't come at the cost of harming children like them.

And ask Dame Rachel if she can help persuade the Government to reconsider this policy in light of its potential impact on their education and well-being.

It’s worth noting that one of Dame Rachel de Souza’s key priorities is education. She has stated:

"I want every child, no matter their background, to attend a fantastic school, every day, and to be engaged and ready to learn."

A child's perspective can be incredibly powerful—let’s ensure their voices are heard!

How to Contact the Children's Commissioner:

Email: Through the website form (children can complete this directly): https://www.childrenscommissioner.gov.uk/about-us/contact/

Postal Address:

Children's Commissioner for England 
Sanctuary Buildings 
20 Great Smith Street 
London SW1P 3BT

If you do write a letter please let us know what she says.  You can reach us by email on mail@educationnottaxation.org

The  Education Not Taxation campaign wish you all a wonderful Christmas and New Year.  Thank you for your incredible support this year.  We have a difficult journey ahead, but we hope you find time to rest and recharge during this holiday season.  The fight continues in 2025!

Best regards,

Tony Perry
ENT