Ringwood MP slams Labour over Moyles Court closure

A local MP has criticised the government’s handling of VAT on private school fees after a Ringwood boarding school announced it was set to close.

Moyles Court School revealed last week that it was closing due to financial pressures. It called out the Labour government’s decision to charge VAT on private school fees as a major factor behind the closure. According to Moyles Court, this is causing many families to no longer be able to afford independent school fees.

Responding to the news, the Conservative MP for New Forest West, Sir Desmond Swayne, said: “Moyles Court School was an excellent school. It will now be terrible shame for all those pupils and their parents who now face the disruption and stress of finding somewhere else.”

Sir Desmond also called out the Labour government’s VAT policy. He said: “The VAT imposed was supposed to provide for the recruitment of 6,000 more teachers. Where are they?”

A spokesperson for Ringwood Town Council also shared a response following the school’s closure: “Ringwood Town Council is sorry to hear the news of the planned closure of Moyles Court School and recognises that this will be a concerning time for pupils, families and staff.

“Our thoughts are with everyone affected, and we hope that all pupils are able to make a smooth transition to their next stage of education.”