Written question asked by Lord Black of Brentwood (Conservative) on Monday, 29 June 2026, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Monday, 13 July 2026. It was answered by Baroness Smith of Malvern (Labour) on Monday, 20 July 2026 on behalf of the Department for Education.

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Private Education: Pupil Numbers

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of figures in Schools, pupils and their characteristics Academic Year 2025/26, published on 4 June, showing that the decline in pupil numbers at independent schools is three times the level of the overall fall in the pupil population in England; and whether they are considering any policy changes as a result.

Answer

The data is in line with expectations given the removal the VAT exemption for private schools and decline in the number of school-age children. HMT have published the attached tax policy impact statement.

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Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

HL1382

Session

2026-27

Attachment

HL1382_attachment

Subjects

Private education Pupil numbers

Link

View this Written question on www.parliament.uk