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A group of wealthy individuals, including ex-footballer Gary Lineker and music producer Brian Eno, have appealed to newly appointed Prime Minister Andy Burnham, urging him to increase taxes on the richest members of society. In an open letter signed by 120 affluent Britons, they emphasized that their proposal targets only the very wealthiest, whose income largely comes from accumulated wealth rather than wages earned through daily work. They stressed their ability to contribute more financially without burdening those who earn their income through regular employment.
This initiative was coordinated by the organization Patriotic Millionaires, which advocates for a more equitable society by redistributing wealth and power away from the richest individuals. The letter calls for this form of “devolution of wealth and power” as a means to reinvest in communities across the country. While people can currently make voluntary contributions of money or stocks to the Treasury, the group argues that a formal tax on wealth is more effective, proposing a 2% levy on fortunes exceeding £10 million.
Reactions to the letter have been mixed. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch remarked that Gary Lineker is free to pay higher taxes at any time by donating directly to the Treasury, suggesting no obstacles prevent voluntary contributions. Meanwhile, Emma Reynolds, Chief Secretary to the Treasury, expressed openness to wealthier individuals paying more tax but clarified that any significant policy changes would be outlined during a future Budget announcement. Reynolds also pointed to the existing donation facility as an option for those inclined to contribute more immediately.
The renewed demand for taxing the wealthy revives a debate ongoing for several years. Shortly before taking office, Burnham did not reject the possibility of a wealth tax, indicating he might “have to ask for a little more” in taxation. Lineker himself, formerly the BBC’s highest-paid presenter with an estimated net worth of around £30 million, has been an outspoken supporter of such measures. The Patriotic Millionaires’ letter further emphasized that many among their ranks favor increased taxation on themselves, criticizing those who cling to outdated economic ideas or prioritize self-interest over national progress
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