Why Stop at Higher Education?

Studies show that people who leave education being able to read and write are likely to earn more money than those who are illiterate. Following the logic of today's vote in the House of Commons, therefore, I propose that we levy fees on primary school education forthwith. After all, shouldn't children who benefit financially from their education be expected to make a contribution to the cost of it?

Don't worry, I'm not suggesting they pay up front. No, the fees will only kick in when they earn, say, £10 per month pocket money. Alternatively, they could be recouped by means of a Literacy Tax.

Of course, there will be some Moaning Minnies who suggest that teaching people to read and write is beneficial to society as a whole, and should therefore be funded out of general taxation. But if we took that argument seriously we would hardly be charging people to become qualified as teachers, doctors, engineers, social workers, scientists, etc., now would we?

Why Stop at Higher Education?

Studies show that people who leave education being able to read and write are likely to earn more money than those who are illiterate. Following the logic of today's vote in the House of Commons, therefore, I propose that we levy fees on primary school education forthwith. After all, shouldn't children who benefit financially from their education be expected to make a contribution to the cost of it?

Don't worry, I'm not suggesting they pay up front. No, the fees will only kick in when they earn, say, £10 per month pocket money. Alternatively, they could be recouped by means of a Literacy Tax.

Of course, there will be some Moaning Minnies who suggest that teaching people to read and write is beneficial to society as a whole, and should therefore be funded out of general taxation. But if we took that argument seriously we would hardly be charging people to become qualified as teachers, doctors, engineers, social workers, scientists, etc., now would we?