Kirsten Oswald MP pushes for school uniform VAT removal

The SNP MP for East Renfrewshire asked the UK government to make the change ahead of the spring Budget in a bid to alleviate the cost pressures facing many households.

Historically, since 1973, shoes and clothing for younger people, have been charged at a zero rate of VAT.

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Nevertheless, clothing items for children aged 14 years or older, or those who are taller than average, are subjected to the full rate of 20 per cent VAT.

The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health has gathered information that indicates that children are now taller and larger than ever before.

Due to this growth, the VAT measurement chart employed by the UK government to determine whether VAT is removed from children’s clothing items has been labelled "outdated".

Mrs Oswald has taken up this issue with the Chancellor, insisting that removing VAT from all school uniforms would level the playing field for all children, whilst also potentially providing financial relief during the current cost-of-living crisis.

She said: "There is no logical reason to start charging VAT on children’s school clothing at the age of 14 years.

"The policy of charging VAT on these items at age 14 was introduced in 1973.

"It is a rule that is out of date and now needs to be scrapped in favour of no VAT being charged on all items of a school uniform."

She added: "Educational experts have demonstrated conclusively that wearing a school uniform fosters a sense of pride and community and boosts academic attainment.

"We should be making it easier for parents and guardians to be able to afford school uniforms, and that starts by removing VAT from sales."

She concluded: "Households across the country are struggling with the cost-of-living crisis.

"By scrapping VAT on school uniform items, the Chancellor would give much-needed relief to hard-pressed families and ensure a level playing field for all children."