School uniform rip-off to end

Schools have been ordered to stop trying to raise money by forcing pupils to buy expensive uniforms.

Children Minister Kevin Brennan said uniforms should not be seen as a chance to make money but as a way of developing school spirit.

And he told headteachers to ensure all outfits are affordable and freely available at local shops.

Any school which breaks the rules by insisting on over-priced clothing may in future be referred to the Office for Fair Trading.

Inquiries by ITV News show a blazer, shirt, a pair of trousers and a jumper at a school supply shop can cost as much as £115.

The same uniform purchased at a supermarket costs as little as £17.75. It is discrepancies like these that the Government wants to end.

New guidelines on uniforms will be published in the autumn. They are expected to include instructions that outfits should be cheap and readily available in high street stores.

If they persist, the competition authorities will crack down on them.

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