IF Ian Thomson (Letters, February 5) thinks that independent schools in Scotland have anything at all to do with class and accent, he needs to spend time with some of the pupils.

If he thinks those families that attend know nothing of the full financial consequences, he needs to speak to some of the parents.

If he thinks that the advancement of education is not a charitable purpose, he needs to take a look at the law of the land.

John Edward,

Director,

Scottish Council of Independent Schools,

61 Dublin Street,

Edinburgh.