While faith schools have always been an integral part of the English state-maintained system of education, during Tony Blair's period as Prime Minister there was a distinct encouragement of the sector. This article assesses the long-term effects of such support. (Contains 1 table.)

Critiques arguments by Harry Brighouse for ignoring the social and political contexts that generate policies concerned with compulsory schooling and school choice. Proposes changes in educational policy that would develop structures and procedures designed to prevent already disadvantaged children from suffering further from increased school…

Questions the degree to which it is appropriate to consider the public and private schools of the United Kingdom as independent. Presents data on the Assisted Places Scheme, changes in tax regulations for charities, and other ways in which the government has given financial and ideological support to independent schools. (Author/BSR)

Discusses the introduction and implementation of the 1988 Education Reform Act for England and Wales. Traces the attempts of several existing private schools to become grant maintained (eligible for various forms of government support). Most private and faith-based schools have not been successful in this endeavor. Discusses the reasons for this.…

Discusses the difficulties in using cost-benefit analysis in education, examines in detail some of the documents supporting the modified libertarian position, and traces the development of policy on school choice. Documents the various new forms of selection that accompany increased choice and considers problems of social segregation. (MJP)