Member

Properly established school uniform policies are important. They promote a sense of well-being and pride, as the noble Lord, Lord Mohammed of Tinsley, so movingly described. They also allow children to subtly rebel. Having an untucked shirt and being told to tuck it in means honour is satisfied before other things get rebelled against. I have noticed a growth in badges being worn on school blazers for success in subjects; this does not work on a tracksuit top or a sweatshirt. A blazer allows children, especially girls, to change shape unnoticed. I have talked before in your Lordships’ House about a 14 year-old girl I taught who was pregnant, and you would never have known. If you give people a choice of brands, the have-nots and the haves become obvious. And please do not get me started on Premier League shirts—what is an away shirt?