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🇧🇪 Belgium /Economy & Trade

British millionaires, including Gary Lineker, urge PM Burnham to tax them more

From VRT NWS · () Dutch

Translated from Dutch, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified Context piece
  • 120 British millionaires have signed an open letter to Prime Minister Burnham calling for a wealth tax on themselves.
  • The group, 'Patriotic Millionaires,' proposes a 2% tax on wealth above 10 million pounds, estimating it could raise 24 billion pounds annually.
  • The initiative aims to fund public services and create a more equal society, with signatories including figures like Gary Lineker.

A group of 120 wealthy British individuals, including former footballer Gary Lineker, have publicly urged Prime Minister Burnham to impose higher taxes on them. Under the banner 'Proud to pay,' these millionaires argue that increased investment is needed for the country's success and that their substantial, undertaxed wealth is a key resource.

We want you to tax us more. We can afford it.

— 120 British millionairesIn an open letter to Prime Minister Burnham

In an open letter, the signatories advocate for a 2% wealth tax on assets exceeding 10 million pounds. They estimate this measure could generate 24 billion pounds annually. The group, which includes investor Julia Davies, musician Brian Eno, and actor Ian Gregg, emphasizes that this call is not for increased taxes on working individuals but specifically targets the wealthiest.

Our fantastic country deserves for all of us to put our shoulders to the wheel.

— Gary LinekerExplaining his support for the initiative to the BBC

"Our fantastic country deserves for all of us to put our shoulders to the wheel," Lineker stated, expressing pride in joining others who desire a more equitable society. Finance Minister Emma Reynolds acknowledged the appeal, suggesting that those with significant wealth can also make donations. She indicated that tax policy would be reviewed comprehensively, with any announcements following budget discussions.

I am proud to stand side-by-side with people from all over the United Kingdom who want to live in a more equal society.

— Gary LinekerExplaining his support for the initiative to the BBC
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by VRT NWS in Dutch. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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