Yes but they are a bit tough

they are not tough if you pick the leaves early enough

That's true Hijuju but if you do that the plant has a problem... Personally I don't pick the leaves off purple sprouting broccoli as I feel the plant needs them to keep it fed.

My parents always grew this and not only did they pick the sprouting pice but they always used the leaves as well but my mum always cut the stem a 1/4 way up the middle of the leaf, just in case it was woody.
Im 48 now and i aint dead yet

Did I say eating the leaves would kill you?

thanks for the answers, not sure if I'll be brave enough to try it but it will not be till winter as I do not want to pick off the leaves yet as I'm sure the cabbage white will be around (again).