Sources at the Treasury said that despite more pupils moving into the state sector than predicted following the introduction of VAT on private school fees, ministers believe they are "on track to raise the revenue forecast if not slightly exceed it", The Telegraph has reported.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves also confirmed that the Office for Budget Responsibility will publish figures on how much the tax would raise ahead of the Budget.

Saqib Bhatti, the shadow education minister said the Conservative party is committed to reversing the policy, adding: "Labour's education tax is punishing children. Schools are closing, fees are rising and kids are being forced to move. We will inevitably end up with lower standards across the board and we will see even more pressure on the public sector, including special educational needs and disabilities provision."

Source: independentschoolmanagement.co.uk