More than 120 British millionaires, led by former Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker, have written to new Prime Minister Andy Burnham urging him to increase taxes on the wealthy. The letter, organised by the Patriotic Millionaires group, calls on the government to address the growing cost of living crisis by making the richest in society pay more.
In their letter to Burnham, who took office this week, the signatories state: «As millionaires we have a clear message for you, our new Prime Minister: tax us.» The group argues that the current tax system unfairly benefits the wealthy while ordinary households struggle with rising energy bills, food prices, and mortgage costs. They propose a wealth tax on assets above a certain threshold, with the revenue used to fund public services and social support.
Gary Lineker, one of the most recognisable figures in British broadcasting, has been a vocal advocate for progressive taxation in recent years. His involvement brings significant public attention to the campaign, which also includes entrepreneurs, academics, and business leaders. The letter was delivered to Downing Street as Burnham assembled his new cabinet and outlined his priority to «get the cost of living down.»
The Patriotic Millionaires group, which has chapters in several countries, argues that extreme wealth inequality undermines social cohesion and economic stability. In the UK, the group has previously called for a wealth tax on fortunes exceeding £10 million, estimating it could raise billions of pounds annually. The letter to Burnham does not specify a precise tax rate but emphasises that millionaires themselves are willing to contribute more to support the national recovery.
Burnham, who succeeded the previous prime minister after a leadership contest, has yet to respond directly to the letter. However, his early statements have focused on tackling the cost of living crisis, which has become the dominant political issue in Britain. Inflation remains above the Bank of England's target, and millions of households face financial strain. The new prime minister has announced a series of policies aimed at easing pressures, including energy price caps and increased welfare payments, but has not committed to a wealth tax.
The call for higher taxes on the wealthy comes amid a broader debate about fiscal policy in the UK. The government is under pressure to fund public services while managing a large budget deficit. Some economists argue that a wealth tax could help reduce inequality and generate revenue without harming economic growth, while others warn it could lead to capital flight and discourage investment. The Patriotic Millionaires group counters that many wealthy individuals are willing to pay more if the money is used effectively.
Among the signatories are several prominent figures from business and philanthropy, though the full list has not been made public. The group says it represents a growing movement of high-net-worth individuals who believe that the current tax system is unfair and unsustainable. They point to countries such as Norway, Spain, and Switzerland, which have some form of wealth tax, as potential models for the UK.
The timing of the letter is significant, as Burnham's government prepares its first budget. The new prime minister faces competing demands from within his party and from the public. Some Labour MPs have called for a wealth tax as part of a broader package of progressive reforms, while others caution against measures that could alienate business leaders and investors. The Patriotic Millionaires' intervention adds a high-profile voice to the debate, potentially shifting public opinion and political calculations.
Critics of the wealth tax proposal argue that it would be difficult to administer and could be avoided through legal loopholes or relocation. They also note that the UK already has a progressive income tax system and that the wealthy contribute a significant share of total tax revenue. Supporters, however, contend that the current system allows vast fortunes to accumulate untaxed, exacerbating inequality and social division.
Gary Lineker's involvement has drawn particular attention due to his high public profile and his previous comments on tax policy. The former England footballer and sports presenter has used his social media platforms to advocate for higher taxes on the rich, often sparking debate. His participation in the letter is likely to amplify the campaign's reach and influence.
The Patriotic Millionaires group plans to continue its advocacy in the coming months, including meetings with Treasury officials and public events. The group's UK director said the letter was just the beginning of a sustained effort to persuade the government to adopt a wealth tax. «We are not asking for special treatment,» he said. «We are asking to be taxed more because we know that our country needs the money.»
As Burnham's government settles into office, the debate over tax policy is expected to intensify. The prime minister's response to the millionaires' letter will be closely watched as an indicator of his economic priorities. For now, the signatories have made their position clear: they want to pay more tax, and they want the government to let them.
