An MP has spoken of his concerns about the Labour government's plan to impose VAT on private school fees.

Joshua Reynolds, Liberal Democrat representative for Maidenhead, visited Newbold School in Binfield, Bracknell, on Friday, October 11, to engage with pupils and participate in an awards ceremony.

He helped distribute accolades to several pupils for their behavioural and academic achievements.

During his visit, Mr Reynolds addressed educational concerns, focusing on the government's VAT proposal.

He expressed his disapproval of taxing education and highlighted the need for a nuanced approach, considering the differences between small schools like Newbold and larger, more expensive institutions.

Parents may face increased pressure to meet private school fee deadlines as documents from HMRC reveal a new “urgent” payment date for Labour’s promised VAT policy.

HMRC documents have confirmed that 20 per cent VAT on private school fees will come in from 1 January 2025 despite warnings from the sector and unions that schools are not ready.

Mr Reynolds shared insights into his role as an MP with the pupils, saying: "Part of my job in representing constituents involves addressing the prime minister and others, asking them why they are doing what they are doing and how we change things to make it better and get what we want rather than what they want instead."

He added that he enjoys school visits the most.

The MP recounted how his journey in public service began by joining the school council as a child, which resonated with the current school council members.

Newbold School is a private fee-paying primary school in Binfield, near Bracknell, Berkshire.

The School is owned and operated by the Seventh-day Adventist Church next to Newbold Seventh-day Adventist Church and Newbold College of Higher Education