Gary Lineker and Brian Eno among 120 millionaires urging PM Andy Burnham to tax them more

An open letter spearheaded by Patriotic Millionaires has garnered signatures from 120 affluent Britons, including notable figures like former footballer Gary Lineker, musician Brian Eno, screenwriter Richard Curtis, crime novelist Val McDermid, and ex-trader Gary Stevenson. This letter urges new Prime Minister Andy Burnham to impose higher taxes on the wealthiest individuals. It contends that increased taxation on income derived from wealth would foster a more equitable society and redistribute wealth and power. Patriotic Millionaires advocate for a 2% tax on assets exceeding £10 million. In response, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch suggested that Lineker could voluntarily contribute to the Treasury. Chief Secretary to the Treasury Emma Reynolds acknowledged the sentiment but mentioned that significant changes would be revealed in an upcoming Budget. When asked by Lineker shortly before assuming office, Burnham did not dismiss the idea of a wealth tax and indicated a potential need for increased taxation. The letter emphasizes that millionaires care for their country and wish to see it thrive, noting that untaxed investment capital remains idle. Brian Eno, speaking on BBC Radio Lincolnshire, criticized the tax system for favoring the wealthy and downplayed concerns about millionaires relocating from the UK, referencing high-tax Scandinavian nations. This initiative follows similar past campaigns.