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Tom's right, Austin. Privet is as tough as old boots and you will do it no harm at all. The only discalimer you may need to offer is that, as it is about to enter its dormant season new growth may not occur until late February. Hence any leafless twigs or branches exposed are likely to stay exposed until then.
With respect to a hard frost, just don't cut it when it is actually that cold. The cuts will heal sufficiently for the plant to recover within a few hours so a hard frost even a day or two later can be ignored. But none are forecast for a while in Yorkshire and the North East.
Thanks for the replies. I think I agree - it won't look too pretty over winter but if they understand that then I'll go ahead and do it. It's at the bottom of the back garden as well, so chances are they won't be out there much over winter and it won't be on wider display for anyone to disapprove!
When explaining this to customers it may be an idea to add in the fact that it won't grow much more before March anyway, offering the option of a February cut. New growth will happen so much sooner they will hardly notice the short unsightly period - especially as it is usually wet, misty or foggy, half dark and the days are still very short then.
I'll give them the option of waiting, but to be honest I'm not snowed under with work for November so if they are happy to do it now I'll crack on with it :)