HC Deb 15 October 1968 vol 770 c185
13. Mr. Christopher Price

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will now take steps to remove from the public schools the fiscal advantages which spring from their charitable status as recommended by the Public Schools Commission.

Mr. Taverne

The majority view of the Commission on this point has been noted, but I have no statement to make at present.

Mr. Price

In view of the fact that The Times stated last week that there is a case in equity for removing charity status, would not my hon. and learned Friend consider applying the £4½ million which he could raise in this way to the deprived primary schools of the country?

Mr. Taverne

That is a matter of educational policy with which it would be more appropriate for the Secretary of State for Education to deal.

Sir T. Beamish

Since the charge is often made against public schools that they are too exclusive—a charge in which I see some truth—is there any possible reason for making them even more exclusive?

Mr. Taverne

Again, the hon. and gallant Gentleman has asked a question of educational policy.