More than 100 millionaires based in the UK, including former Match of the Day host Gary Lineker, have signed a letter urging newly appointed Prime Minister Andy Burnham to impose taxes on their wealth. The initiative, led by Patriotic Millionaires UK, advocates for higher taxes on the wealthiest individuals in the country rather than on ordinary workers.
Andy Burnham has signaled his support for a wealth tax in the past and has indicated that his administration may need to seek additional contributions from the richest members of society. The proposal put forth by Patriotic Millionaires and Tax Justice UK suggests implementing a 2% annual tax on wealth exceeding £10 million, a move that would impact approximately 20,000 individuals in the UK, constituting less than 0.04% of the population.
Gary Lineker, who joined 120 other millionaires in signing the letter, expressed his belief in promoting a more equal society, stating, “Our remarkable nation deserves our collective support. I am honored to stand alongside individuals in the UK who aspire to live in a more equitable society.”
He emphasized the importance of paying a fair share, highlighting that many ordinary citizens are already contributing beyond their means. Lineker stressed that the wealthiest individuals can and should do more to uphold British values, calling on the government to increase taxes on extreme levels of wealth for a fairer and more optimistic Britain.
When questioned about the possibility of a wealth tax in an interview before taking office, Andy Burnham did not dismiss the idea, emphasizing the need for fairness and ensuring that decisions are made in a just manner. Wes Streeting, recently appointed as Defence Secretary, supported the wealth tax as an effective measure when he resigned from Keir Starmer’s Cabinet in May.
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