A top Tory has blasted Sir Keir Starmer’s Government after he says it “secretly launched” information without MPs so much as getting a say.

Stuart Andrew, the Opposition’s Chief Whip, said he was “very concerned” about details published that he claimed were not mentioned to fellow MPs.

The technical note, draft legislation and accompanying explanatory note that went live on the Gov.uk website concerns the controversial Labour decision to impose 20% VAT on private schools.

The Conservative MP for Daventry said he and colleagues found out less than 24 hours before the deadline to collect views on the matter.

However, the Treasury told Express.co.uk that the Exchequer Secretary made a written statement on July 29 saying the Government would be publishing the information and that a “technical consultation” on the legislation would last until September 15. It also said the final policy design would be confirmed at the October 30 Budget.

In a tweet, Mr Andrew said: “Very concerned to discover that a technical note on the VAT and business rates changes affecting private schools has been secretly launched by the Government, without any mention to MPs.”

Mr Andrew said “it is clear they are trying to do this quietly” and “limit the scope of those who can respond”, adding: “We should not be quiet.”

However, the Gov.uk website also states the HM Treasury policy paper was launched on the website back in July.

The opening paragraphs on the technical note said: “The Government is committed to breaking down barriers to opportunity, ensuring every child has access to high-quality education.

“To do this, the Government is ending tax breaks for private schools, helping to raise revenue to fund state education priorities.

“The Government believes in parental choice, but is also determined to fulfil the aspiration of every parent to get the best education for their child.

“Around 94% of school children in the UK attend state schools and ending the tax breaks on VAT and business rates for private schools is a tough but necessary decision that will secure additional funding to help deliver the Government’s commitments relating to education and young people.”

Meanwhile in a significant blow, the plan to impose VAT on private school fees is facing a High Court legal challenge, with claims that it breaches human rights laws.

Lawyers argue the policy, a key part of Labour’s tax proposals, discriminates against children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

The legal challenge, lead by Sinclairslaw, claims that families with SEND children could be forced out of private schools due to higher fees, leaving them to rely on a state education system that is ill-equipped to handle their more complex needs.