A group of 120 affluent Britons, including former footballer Gary Lineker and musician Brian Eno, has issued an open letter to Prime Minister Andy Burnham, advocating for increased taxation on the country's wealthiest citizens. The campaign, organized by the group Patriotic Millionaires, argues that higher levies on accumulated wealth—rather than earned income—are necessary to foster a more equitable society and provide essential public investment.

The signatories, who also include filmmaker Richard Curtis and former Greggs managing director Ian Gregg, proposed a 2% tax on wealth exceeding £10 million. In their letter, the group stated, "Success requires investment and a primary source of untouched capital investment is sitting with us, in untaxed potential." Brian Eno, speaking to BBC Radio Lincolnshire, criticized the current system as being overly favorable to the wealthy, noting that many use accounting strategies to minimize their tax obligations.

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The government's response has been measured. Chief Secretary to the Treasury Emma Reynolds noted that while she welcomes the sentiment, any significant fiscal policy changes would be reserved for a formal Budget announcement. She also pointed out that individuals wishing to contribute more to the state can already utilize an existing Treasury donation facility.

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch dismissed the request, suggesting that those who wish to pay more are free to write a check to the Treasury voluntarily. Prime Minister Burnham, who previously discussed the possibility of tax adjustments with Lineker, has not ruled out a wealth tax, having indicated prior to his election that he might eventually need to "ask for a little more" from taxpayers.

Source: BBC News