Measure twice, cut once

Sir, – Measure twice, cut once.

This is a principle I was taught in secondary education – it agreeably applies to practical subjects, but it also has a wider bearing when making other decisions.

On February 4 2020 the Scottish Parliament will finally debate the Non Domestic Rates (Scotland) Bill, which includes a consideration to remove rates relief from all independent schools in Scotland, with the exception of special schools and specialist music schools.

Has the Scottish Parliament seriously considered the implication of burdening these valuable independent schools with additional charges?

Having been involved with one such independent school for at least 15 years, these schools typically achieve higher academic results and often produce tomorrow’s leaders in commerce, science and government.

How many independent schools would be forced to close, or how many families would be unable to sustain the increased fees?

What would be the added burden and disruption on the state education system from the influx of additional pupils should these schools, and/or the families that use independent schools be pressurised to change, for example in Perthshire, where resources are already stretched?

Has the Scottish Government only looked at an increased revenue stream and not considered the wider implications for the long term – i.e. have they checked their measurements before they cut?

John D Wilkin. 89 Sauchenbush Road, Kirkcaldy.