London, 16 September 2025  – Taxpayers Against Poverty (TAP) will intensify its push for reform of the tax system in the run up to the Autumn Budget on 26 November . This effort is backed by public demand: polling consistently shows that around three-quarters of the British public support fair taxation on extreme wealth. With inequality at record levels, campaigners believe now is the moment for action. Tom Burgess, TAP CEO said: “Wealth in Britain is undertaxed, while work is overtaxed. That imbalance drives poverty and inequality. TAP is calling on the government to modernise the tax system—tax wealth more, tax work less—and use the proceeds to invest in health, housing, education, and infrastructure. That’s how we reduce poverty and grow the economy inclusively.” TAP is working closely with Richard Burgon MP  who is the lead sponsor of an Early Day Motion (EDM 1725 ) calling  for a wealth tax. TAP aims to increase the support for the EDM. and the proposals to tax wealth more. Richard Burgon recently organised a petition which received over 80,000 signatures calling for a wealth tax and met with Patriotic Millionaire Gary Stevenson of @garyseconomics outside Downing St before he delivered the petition to Number 10. TAP also expressed gratitude to the Thirty Percy Foundation , whose recent grant has enabled the organisation to strengthen its capacity, broaden collaboration, and scale up campaigning efforts in the months leading up to the Budget. TAP will provide evidence, briefings, and practical proposals showing how taxing wealth more fairly can:   ·       Raise billions in new revenue without causing hardship ·       Reduce inequality and ease the cost of living ·       Fund vital public services and infrastructure investment ·       Support long-term, inclusive economic growth ENDS Notes to Editors ·       The Autumn Budget is scheduled for 26 November 2025. ·       Recent polling by YouGov and Oxfam shows around 75–78% of the UK public support wealth taxes on fortunes over £10m. ·       Taxpayers Against Poverty works with MPs, campaign groups, and grassroots organisations to highlight poverty and inequality and press for economic reform.   About Taxpayers Against Poverty Taxpayers against Poverty  is a UK-based independent advocacy group dedicated to tackling poverty, inequality, and social injustice by promoting economic policies that have a direct effect on reducing poverty and the unnecessary financial hardship. TAP seeks to influence national and local policy with well-researched and robust evidence of hardship and promote practical policy proposals using a direct approach to decision makers and other influencers. TAP’s sister organisation and partner is Compassion in Politics   which seeks to bring more honesty, respect and compassion into political life For media inquiries, interviews, or to support our campaigns, please contact: Tom Burgess, CEO, Taxpayers Against Poverty   taxpayersagainstpoverty@gmail.com www.taxpayersagainstpoverty.org.uk   www.realagenda.org Partner & sister organisation: www.compassioninpolitics.com

London, 8 September 2025 — Taxpayers Against Poverty (TAP) today announced the next phase of its campaign to modernise the UK tax system and reduce hardship for millions. With the Autumn Budget due on 26 November, TAP will focus on building a cross-party coalition of MPs to ensure wealth taxation is firmly on the political agenda.   TAP has appointed Simon Thomson as Campaign Director to lead this initiative. Simon was Head of European and International Media, People’s Vote Campaign. where he helped grow MP support from under 10 to nearly 300. He has also been Strategic Communications Manager at FareShare, a national charity fighting hunger and food waste where his campaign work helped secure £15 million in UK government funding to combat food poverty. Simon is an award winning former BBC reporter, news editor and film maker and has twice stood as Labour Party Parliamentary Candidate. Over 14 million people in the UK live in poverty. Rising costs and stagnant wages mean millions more are struggling to get by. TAP argues that the current system — which relies heavily on taxing earned income while leaving vast wealth under-taxed — is broken, unfair, and economically harmful. “This is not about punishing wealth,”  said Tom Burgess, CEO of TAP . “It’s about modernising the way we raise revenue, so it is fair, efficient, and fit for the 21st century. Those who work hard should keep more of what they earn, while those in a stronger position contribute fairly to our shared prosperity.” TAP’s campaign will: ·       Engage and brief MPs  who have spoken out on poverty, inequality, and wealth taxes. ·       Build a parliamentary coalition  prepared to support wealth taxation measures. ·       Press for amendments  to the Autumn Budget if it fails to shift the balance towards wealth. ·       Mobilise public support  for the principle of “Tax Wealth, Not Work.” By focusing on MPs across parties who are committed to reducing inequality, TAP aims to generate sufficient parliamentary momentum to influence government policy directly. “Reducing poverty isn’t just a moral imperative, it’s an economic growth strategy,”  Burgess added. “Fairer taxation means stronger local economies, higher productivity, and lower long-term costs. The Autumn Budget is the moment to act.” About TAP Taxpayers Against Poverty is an independent UK-based advocacy group dedicated to tackling poverty, inequality, and social injustice. TAP campaigns for practical, evidence-based policies that reduce hardship and ensure fairness in the economy.   These policies are presented as The Real Agenda, TAP’s policy platform, it is a clear, focused call to action against poverty and inequality in the UK. The aim is to refocus the public debate  on what really matters: decent incomes, affordable housing, accessible healthcare, and fair taxes, because that is the Real Agenda! Contact :Tom Burgess, CEO, Taxpayers Against Poverty📧  taxpayersagainstpoverty@gmail.com  | 🌐  www.taxpayersagainstpoverty.org.uk  | www.realagenda.org

London, UK — 5 September 2025 Taxpayers Against Poverty (TAP) has today unveiled a bold new vision for Britain—one rooted in fairness, dignity, and shared responsibility. A Vision for a Thriving and Compassionate Britain  sets out TAP’s belief that the country can and must do better, not only for the 14 million people living in poverty but for everyone who believes in a future built on opportunity, justice, and care. “This is not just a policy framework. It’s a promise—to each other, to our communities, and to future generations,” said Tom Burgess, CEO of TAP. “We believe most taxpayers want a country that lifts people up, not locks them out.” The TAP vision outlines five key pillars: A Nation of Equal Opportunity  – Where every child, regardless of background, can thrive, and where healthcare, education, and opportunity are accessible to all. A Greener, Healthier Future  – Where the UK leads the way in clean energy, climate action, and sustainable living. Communities Built on Compassion  – Where no one is homeless or hungry, and social care is a right, not a privilege. A World-Leading Example of Justice and Equality  – Where fairness defines both foreign policy and domestic law. A Better Quality of Life for All  – Where well-being, culture, connection, and mental health are priorities—not afterthoughts. This long-term vision builds on TAP’s Real Agenda  platform of practical policy proposals and will underpin a series of upcoming campaigns and announcements. Together, they represent a unified call for policies that reduce inequality, tackle systemic hardship, and ensure public money serves the public good. “We’re offering a direction of travel. A roadmap for a country that works better—not just for some, but for all,” added Tom Burgess. “This is what wealth equity looks like in action.” This is not a distant or utopian vision. It is rooted in practical change and public support. TAP argues that fairness, security, and sustainability are not just social goods—they are economic essentials. Investing in people, protecting our environment, and reforming the systems that keep people trapped in hardship are essential to the country’s long-term resilience. The launch of this vision will form the backdrop to a series of campaigns under TAP’s Real Agenda  platform. Each campaign will focus on one area of urgent reform—starting with tax justice, ending public contracts that pay poverty wages, and scrapping unfair taxes on the poorest households. TAP will be working in partnership with organisations such as Compassion in Politics to deliver a joined-up approach to change. About Taxpayers Against Poverty Taxpayers Against Poverty  is a UK-based independent advocacy group dedicated to tackling poverty, inequality, and social injustice by promoting economic policies that have a direct effect on reducing poverty and the unnecessary financial hardship. TAP’s sister organisation and partner is Compassion in Politics   which seeks to bring more truth respect and compassion into political life For media enquiries, to read the full vision or schedule a briefing with TAP, please contact: Tom Burgess, CEO, Taxpayers Against Poverty taxpayersagainstpoverty@gmail.com www.taxpayersagainstpoverty.org.uk   www.realagenda.org

With special thanks to the creators of Yes, Minister and Yes, Prime Minster: Antony Jay & Jonathan Lynn and full acknowledgements to BBC TV For those that can remember the 80s, what if Sir Humphrey Appleby was still at the Treasury and could give the current Prime Minister a briefing on the inevitability of a wealth tax shift while making it sound both prudent and politically irresistible. Sir Humphrey: Prime Minister, if I may be permitted to venture a modest observation on the fiscal conundrum presently vexing Her Majesty’s Treasury, it is this: the current system of raising revenue relies disproportionately on taxing income, which — as you will be aware — is something the vast majority of voters would prefer to keep. Conversely, wealth — being more abstract, less visible in its accrual, and, one might add, rather more concentrated in the hands of those with the means to avoid drawing attention to it — represents a hitherto insufficiently tapped reservoir of fiscal opportunity. Now, I do appreciate that the term “wealth tax” can induce a certain, shall we say, operatic response from the editorial pages of the more excitable press. However, if framed as a “modernisation of the revenue base” or a “realignment of fiscal fairness,” we could sidestep the unhelpful imagery of grasping bureaucrats rifling through the jewel boxes of the landed gentry. Instead, the policy could be presented as a prudent rebalancing: reducing the burden on earned income — the fruit of hard work — while modestly increasing contributions from unearned accumulations, the fruit, if you will, of time and compound interest. The genius of this approach, Prime Minister, is twofold. First, it allows you to announce a tax cut (on income) — which is universally popular — and second, it enables you to claim the moral high ground by ensuring “those most able to contribute do so commensurately with their means.” Meanwhile, the economically literate will note that this stimulates enterprise and productivity whilst mildly discouraging the unproductive hoarding of idle capital. Of course, implementation would require the utmost delicacy. The wealthy, though few in number, are long of memory and deep of pocket — both of which can be mobilised against any perceived injustice. Thus, the measure must be accompanied by soothing assurances, ample transitional arrangements, and preferably a respectable international precedent. If, for example, the French, the Canadians, or even the Australians could be persuaded to introduce something similar simultaneously, we could describe the whole exercise as “aligning with global best practice” rather than “plundering the silver.” In short, Prime Minister, the proposal is simplicity itself: reduce taxes on what people do  (earn, work, produce) and increase them slightly on what people merely have . Present it as the forward-looking reform of a modern, fair, and efficient economy, and you will be applauded by the industrious many, whilst the indignant few will, in the fullness of time, adapt — as they always do. Prime Minister : Hmm, I like the sound of that, Sir Humphrey, prepare a proposal for the Cabinet immediately

By Tom Burgess, CEO Taxpayers Against Poverty and author of   From Here to Prosperity (this article was originally published in 2018 in inequality.org , it seems little has changed, and how the proposal is still very relevant) 18 August 2025 Bermuda is beautiful — and broken. Its pink-sand beaches and mild climate make it a dream home for some. But beneath the postcard surface lies a global problem: over 18,000 companies are registered in Bermuda, many funnelling profits from other countries to exploit secrecy and low tax rates. This isn’t smart capitalism — it’s legalised theft. According to leading economist Gabriel Zucman, nearly 40% of multinational corporate profits  are now parked in tax havens like Bermuda. That’s trillions withheld from public services, infrastructure, and communities — all to inflate the wealth of shareholders and top executives. In the USA, the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act supercharged this injustice. Instead of using tax breaks to create jobs or raise wages, CEOs used the windfall to buy back shares — boosting their own compensation while workers struggled with flat wages and rising living costs. This is not an accident.It ’s the result of an outdated, shareholder-first economic model that no longer serves the common good. And it’s time we fixed it — not with more punishment, but with better incentives . The Solution: Social Offsetting Social offsetting  is a new approach to corporate tax policy. Instead of punishing bad behaviour, it rewards good behaviour with meaningful tax breaks. Here’s what it looks like: ✅ Companies pay all workers a real living wage✅ Executive pay is capped at 20x the lowest-paid employee✅ Profits are shared with workers✅ No political donations✅ Flexible working hours and strong training programs✅ Investment in renewable energy✅ No use of offshore tax havens Firms that meet these standards would qualify for reduced corporate tax rates  — aligning financial incentives with social responsibility. Why It Matters It’s fair : Corporate income tax is paid only on profits — not revenue or payroll. It doesn’t hurt business; it rewards responsibility. It attracts talent : Companies seen as good employers will win the race for top talent. It restores trust : People are tired of rigged rules. This is how we level the playing field. It brings wealth home : Instead of hiding profits offshore, firms will reinvest in the communities where their wealth was truly created. A Badge of Honour Under a social offsetting model, a company’s tax return becomes more than a filing — it’s a statement of values. Good employers will wear it as a badge of honour.Bad actors will stand exposed. If we want an economy that works for everyone — not just the top 1% — we must redesign the rules to reflect our values. Social offsetting does just that. Let’s make taxes a tool for justice.Let’s reward companies that put people and planet before profit. Let’s bring the wealth home. Tom Burgess is the author of  From Here to Prosperity: A New Political Agenda for a Sustainable Economy and Greater Social Justice, and former CEO of a global public relations firm operating in 100 countries. Currently he is CEO of Taxpayers against Poverty and a director of Compassion in Politics

Here is a draft speech suitable for a Chancellor, Treasury Minister, or Prime Minister to deliver in Parliament or at a press briefing: Speech: A Fair Contribution to Secure Britain’s Future Speaker:  Chancellor of the Exchequer Location:  House of Commons / Press Conference Date:  xxx Colleagues, Today I want to speak plainly about the future of our economy—and the responsibility we have to protect it. Our public services are under pressure. The NHS, education, housing—every one of them is vital. And each one of them costs money. We inherited challenges, yes—but we also inherited the responsibility to lead. Now, we face a simple question: how do we fund the future without placing further strain on working people? The answer is clear. We ask a little more from those with the most. Today I’m announcing a new measure—the Fair Contribution Levy . This is not  a broad wealth tax. This is a targeted, time-bound levy  on extreme wealth—those with net assets over £10 million . Just 20,000 people. That’s 0.03% of the population. And it will raise around £24 billion a year —without causing hardship to a single family. Let me be clear: this is not about punishment. It’s about partnership . It’s about ensuring those who have gained most from our economy also help sustain it. This levy will help fund: More doctors and nurses in the NHS New affordable housing in communities across the UK Investment in children’s education and well-being We are introducing this with safeguards —for businesses, for entrepreneurs, and for asset-rich, cash-poor households. There will be exemptions, deferrals, and fairness built into every line. Because this is not just about balancing books. This is about balancing values . So to those who will contribute: thank you. You are helping rebuild a Britain that works for everyone—not just a privileged few. To the public: know this—we will never ask those with the least to pay more while the very wealthiest are protected. This is what fairness looks like. This is how we lead. And this is how we rebuild Britain—together. Thank you.

Sylvie Rouhani Deputy Editor, Taxpayers Against Poverty August 2025 With cuts to many services and, to support in the community. the Covid – 19 pandemics, the lack of mental health support, and the cost of living crisis, young people, aged 16 – 24, are living in poverty and in despair, in the UK. The reasons for the decline in the young people standards of living, and of their mental health, are tenfold and often, interlinked. Most young adults, are now feeling hopeless about their future, stuck in jobs that do not pay, in a society that expect so much of them, but gives them so little, to embark into their adult lives. 15 years of severe cuts ·       Child Benefit Cap and cuts Disability Benefits In 2017, The Conservative government implemented a fatal change to Child Benefit by imposing a two chid cap. This pushed thousands of parents and their children into poverty. Young people who grew up in a destitute household will be more at risk of mental illness, of isolation from peers and of falling behind their education.  During the 2025 Spring Statement, Chancellor Rachel Reeves, announced some concerning changes for young people under 22 years of age: they will no longer be able to receive the “UC Health Element” (LWCRA,) even if they already receive PIP. They will be “encouraged” to train or, to seek further education or to gain employment, instead. This will only push young people into further poverty and despair. ·        Cuts in Youth Centres.  The latest Youth UK Survey  - shows a decline in the number of youth centres, in England: from 931 youth centres, in 2011 in England, to 429 centres, in 2024. Fifty-four percent fewer. This is linked to a decrease of Local Government expenditure in youth services, which was, in 2010, £1648.9 million, In 2024, it was down to £446.05 million. The Covid – 19 pandemics also put a strain on already struggling local youth services. Many closed and didn’t re-open, leaving many young people with missing on community support. ·       The Covid -19 pandemic The Pandemic, in 2020, and the lockdowns had a disastrous impact on young people’s mental health and education. The pupils set to pass their GCSEs were asked to study and to get on with it without support and time to catch up. For those living in abusive households, they had nowhere escape. Online classes were difficult for most, especially with neurodivergent pupils. Young people suffering with disabilities were cut off from their medical support system as well as being isolated from peers. Those suffering with mental health difficulties, fell into deeper despair, with no support to get through the lockdowns and other social restrictions. ·       Lack of Mental health services.  Already overstretched to their limits, before the pandemic, mental health services have since been unable to meet the ever-increasing needs of young people. More than 25.8% of young people (16 – 24) live with a mental health condition, highlights the latest NHS Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing (2023/4) In regard to the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAHMS), the latest Care Quality Commission survey  reads: o   “Forty-five per cent of respondents waited 3 months or more for their first appointment for treatment and over half (53%) received no support while waiting (although a decrease compared to 60% in 2023). o   In a crisis, 33% would not know who to contact. o   Forty-three per cent said they did not have a care plan and 44% have not had a review meeting in the last 12 months.” 19 years old Emma*, from South East London, shares her experience :” It took a long time for my GP to take my mental health difficulties seriously. Teachers and school staff were impatient with me and very judgemental, which increased my anxiety and stopped me from attending school. During the lockdown, was meant to sit for my GCSEs. The classes were online, which was difficult for me, and I didn’t keep up. When schools re-opened. We were just expected to carry on as normal. I feel like our school year has been let down. It took ages for me to be referred to CAMHS, even then, it took longer for CAHMS to give me any support. There was no help during times of crisis. I stopped school, without sitting my GCSEs. It was hard.” ·       Cost of living crisis  Rents are higher than they have ever been and makes renting, for young adults, unreachable. This means more young adults stay longer at their parents’ house, or they need some financial support towards rent deposits, to start their independent life. University loans also are at their highest, meaning students start their adult life in debts. Working no longer provides a guaranteed good standard of living and food has become a luxury for many. Going out and having fun are expensive and out of reach for most. The Prince’s Trust NatWest Youth Index 2024  described the overwhelming impact on the young adults: o   “Half of young people (49 per cent) state the cost of living has had a worse impact on their life than the pandemic. o   Over half of young people (53 per cent) worry that the cost of living means they’ll never be financially secure. o   Due to the cost of living, a third of young people (34 per cent) say that worrying about money has made their mental health much worse. This rises to 44 per cent among young people who are NEET. (Not in Education, Employment or Training. o   Young people’s overall happiness and confidence with money have hit their lowest levels ever recorded by this study, with a third (33 per cent) of young people saying thinking about money depresses or stresses them.” Mia*, young woman living in London said:  “Everything is so expensive: rent, food, travel cost, etc. We can’t afford to move out of our parents’ home. Young adults now stay much longer with their parents, or their parents financially support them to get on the property ladder. Not all parents are supportive though, or able to financially help. We work, we pay travel and buy food, and we have nothing left to just enjoy ourselves” The solutions Real living wage, more affordable and social housing must be available for all young people, especially the ones who have no parents nor carers, to support them. There is a real need for community support, local clubs and social events for young adults. They also need more options in terms of training, alternatives to learning in a classroom setting. It is urgent the government funds mental health services and focus on the well being of its younger citizens as they are the future of this country * Our Role in Creating Change We cannot wait for someone else to act. It’s time to demand better for the millions struggling in poverty—and for the millions more living one unexpected expense away from it. ·       Join us in advocating for a compassionate, fairer society. Here’s how you can help: ·       Speak Up: Contact your MP and demand investment in social care, living wages, and affordable housing. ·       Get Involved: Volunteer or donate to organisations like TAP that fight for systemic change. ·       Stay Informed: Follow TAP’s work and share their message to build awareness. Together, we can create a society where no one is left behind. Let’s make compassion the cornerstone of our nation’s future.   Sylvie Rouhani Deputy Editor, Taxpayers Against Poverty August 2025   *Names changed for anonymity.

London, UK – 31 July 2025 – Taxpayers Against Poverty (TAP) is pleased to announce the appointment of Oliver Williams to its Advisory Board. Oliver is a senior fintech executive with a background in financial journalism and a long-standing advocate for social justice, equity, and youth empowerment. Currently Global Head of Content Strategy at a leading fintech company, Oliver brings over 15 years of experience in finance, communications, and public messaging. He began his career as a trainee accountant before becoming a financial journalist at Investors Chronicle (part of the Financial Times group), giving him a deep understanding of how the financial system works—and how it can work better for everyone. Outside his corporate roles, Oliver has been a champion for diversity and inclusion, chairing Race and Ethnicity Networks and serving on Diversity Councils across the financial sector. His voluntary work includes mentoring young Afro-Caribbean people through organisations such as the East London Business Alliance and Reach Society, for which he received a national award. He also co-founded Cassavas , a London-based Caribbean supper club celebrating community, culture, and accessible food. “We’re delighted to welcome Oliver to the TAP Advisory Board,” said Tom Burgess, CEO of TAP. “His insight into finance, his commitment to equality, and his passion for practical solutions will help strengthen our mission to dismantle poverty and expose the systems that perpetuate it.” TAP’s Advisory Board brings together experts and advocates from across society to guide the organisation’s work, amplify its campaigns, and influence policies that create lasting change. Oliver joins Paul Morrison and George Turner on TAP Advisory Board, announced on 8 July 2025 For more information on TAP’s Advisory Board and campaigns, visit www.taxpayersagainstpoverty.org.uk ENDS   About Taxpayers Against Poverty Taxpayers Against Poverty  is a UK-based independent advocacy group dedicated to tackling poverty, inequality, and social injustice by promoting economic policies that have a direct effect on reducing poverty and the unnecessary financial hardship. TAP’s sister organisation and partner is Compassion in Politics   which seeks to bring more truth respect and compassion into political life     For media inquiries, interviews, or to support the campaign, please contact: Tom Burgess, CEO, Taxpayers Against Poverty taxpayersagainstpoverty@gmail.com www.taxpayersagainstpoverty.org.uk   www.realagenda.org

London, UK – 8 July 2025 – Taxpayers Against Poverty (TAP) is proud to announce the appointment of two distinguished individuals to its Advisory Board: Dr. Paul Morrison , a policy advisor with the Joint Public Issues Team (JPIT) of the Methodist Church, and George Turner , a former investigative journalist and former Director of TaxWatch UK. Paul Morrison brings a wealth of experience in poverty and social justice, with a deep understanding of the structural causes of deprivation in the UK. His work with the Methodist Church’s JPIT team focuses on poverty and inequality, and a friend of TAP’s late founder, the Rev. Paul Nicolson. His appointment continues the legacy of Rev. Nicolson’s vision: that poverty is a political choice, and can be eradicated through collective action and compassionate policy. George Turner founded Tax Watch in October 2018 and served as its Executive Director until mid-2022, when he suffered a serious cycling accident. Coming home after half a year in hospital, George stepped back to focus on his recovery. George is now a Senior Advisor to TaxWatch, advising on thematic issues and helping to shape its future direction. Turner has long championed transparency, accountability, and tax justice—principles that lie at the heart of TAP’s mission. “We are delighted to welcome Paul and George to the TAP Advisory Board,” said Tom Burgess, CEO at TAP. “Their expertise and values reflect our commitment to systemic change, not sticking-plaster solutions. Both are fierce advocates for a fairer and more just society—and they will be powerful voices in shaping our strategy and influencing national policy.” The TAP Advisory Board is a collective of respected voices from across public life—politicians, academics, campaigners—who guide and support the organisation’s mission to tackle poverty and inequality at its roots. Members provide strategic input, amplify campaigns, and enhance TAP’s ability to influence meaningful change. For more information on the Advisory Board and TAP’s work, visit www.taxpayersagainstpoverty.org.uk About Taxpayers Against Poverty Taxpayers Against Poverty  is a UK-based independent advocacy group dedicated to tackling poverty, inequality, and social injustice by promoting economic policies that have a direct effect on reducing poverty and the unnecessary financial hardship. TAP’s sister organisation and partner is Compassion in Politics   which seeks to bring more truth respect and compassion into political life    For media enquiries, interviews, access to the full policy briefing, or to support the campaign, please contact: Tom Burgess, CEO, Taxpayers Against Poverty taxpayersagainstpoverty@gmail.com www.taxpayersagainstpoverty.org.uk   www.realagenda.org Partner & sister organisation: www.compassioninpolitics.com

PRESS STATEMENT London, 23 July 2025 Taxpayers Against Poverty (TAP) welcomes the growing consensus that the UK’s tax system needs urgent reform to redress the imbalance between income from work and income from wealth. Dan Neidle and Tax Policy Associates have made a valuable contribution to this debate by highlighting the importance of taxing wealth more effectively, and by endorsing reforms such as Land Value Tax. However, we fundamentally disagree with their assertion that a 2% annual tax on net wealth over £10 million “wouldn’t work.” That view underestimates both the moral case and the practical feasibility of taxing the ultra-wealthy in a fair and proportionate way. 1. The moral imperative We tax nurses, teachers, and carers at source — yet we allow billionaires and multi-millionaires to accumulate untaxed wealth, often benefiting from public infrastructure and services while contributing proportionally far less. In a country where food banks are becoming a permanent fixture, it's not good enough to say taxing extreme wealth is too difficult. 2. The numbers are clear A 2% annual tax on wealth above £10 million would affect fewer than 20,000 individuals in the UK — less than 0.04% of the population — and could raise an estimated £24 billion a year. That revenue could fund the Real Living Wage for all workers in the public sector, eliminate the two-child benefit cap, and provide universal free school meals. This is not a radical proposal — it’s a modest rebalancing of a system that has been skewed for decades. 3. The practical objections are overstated Critics argue that a wealth tax is hard to implement or easy to avoid. But these are policy challenges, not policy killers. Other countries — including Norway and Switzerland — already operate wealth taxes. Valuation can be managed through self-declaration with audit triggers, and the tax could be levied on liquidity or deferred until realisation in cases of illiquid assets. With the right enforcement mechanisms, the risks of avoidance or capital flight can be mitigated. If we can build a system that taxes every payslip with precision, we can build one to tax multi-million pound asset portfolios. 4. Land Value Tax is not enough We support Land Value Tax as part of the solution — but it is not a substitute for taxing the enormous concentration of wealth in financial assets, company shares, offshore trusts, and private equity holdings. We must be willing to say: the ultra-rich can and must contribute more. Like Tax Policy Associates , TAP would like to see an end to Stamp Duty, Council Tax and Business Rates and for it to replaced in Dan Neidle's words " A new modern tax on land which is a much a much fairer and more efficient. The correct and  courageous  thing to do is to scrap council tax, business rates and stamp duty – that’s about £80bn altogether – and replace them all with “ land value tax ” (LVT). LVT is an annual tax on the unimproved  value of land , residential and commercial – probably the rate would be  somewhere between 0.5% and 1% of current market values . TAP supports the Fairer Share Campaign for a Proportional Property Tax and Richard Burgon MP 's call for a wealth tax as well as the work of TaxJustice UK , Patriotic Millionaires UK, Fairness Foundation , Equality Trust and Garyseconomics , to introduce taxes on wealth more than work, to bring down the high level of inequality in the UK. Conclusion TAP’s mission is simple: to prioritise poverty on the political agenda . That means shifting the tax burden away from work and toward accumulated wealth. It means refusing to accept that billions in untapped resources sit beyond the reach of a democratic state. And it means demanding courage from our political leaders — not caution dressed as pragmatism. We invite all those serious about fairness to back a tax system that works for everyone — not just the wealthy few. Taxpayers Against Poverty. www.taxpayersagainstpoverty.org.uk   Prioritise Poverty. Tax Wealth, Not Work. About Taxpayers Against Poverty Taxpayers Against Poverty  is a UK-based independent advocacy group dedicated to tackling poverty, inequality, and social injustice by promoting economic policies that have a direct effect on reducing poverty and the unnecessary financial hardship. TAP’s sister organisation and partner is Compassion in Politics   which seeks to bring more truth respect and compassion into political life     For media inquiries, interviews, or to support the campaign, please contact: Tom Burgess, CEO, Taxpayers Against Poverty taxpayersagainstpoverty@gmail.com www.taxpayersagainstpoverty.org.uk   www.realagenda.org

London, 2 July 2025  – Taxpayers Against Poverty (TAP)  today expressed its deep gratitude to the Members of Parliament who broke ranks to vote against the government’s latest round of welfare cuts. “These MPs put people before party. They voted with conscience, not calculation—and we thank them,”  said Tom Burgess, CEO TAP. “They stood up for dignity, compassion, and fairness at a moment when it mattered most.” TAP is calling on the government to now reset its approach —and show real leadership by developing a bold new economic agenda that prioritises poverty reduction and encourages inclusive growth , rather than pushing through policies that hit the most vulnerable hardest. “We need a government that understands poverty is not a budget line—it’s a national emergency,” said TAP. “Cutting support for those who need it most is not just unjust—it is economically short-sighted. While we acknowledge that the welfare system needs reform, it needs to be handled in a compassionate manner” TAP strongly supports Richard Burgon MP’s campaign to block disability benefit cuts  and introduce a Wealth Tax on the very richest . These proposals offer a credible alternative to austerity—one that ensures those with the broadest shoulders contribute fairly to the society we all share.   About Taxpayers Against Poverty Taxpayers Against Poverty  is a UK-based independent advocacy group dedicated to tackling poverty, inequality, and social injustice by promoting economic policies that have a direct effect on reducing poverty and the unnecessary financial hardship. TAP’s sister organisation and partner is Compassion in Politics   which seeks to bring more truth respect and compassion into political life For media enquiries, interviews, or comment:  Tom Burgess, CEO, Taxpayers Against Poverty Email: taxpayersagainstpoverty@gmail.com Website: www.taxpayersagainstpoverty.org.uk

Sylvie Rouhani Deputy Editor, Taxpayers Against Poverty 1 July 2025 TAP's founder, the late Rev Paul Nicolson, a constant campaigner against Council Tax On the 9th of June 2025, TAP launched the campaign to Cancel Council Tax for Renters . This tax is outdated and pushes many into debt. Failure to pay brings severe and unfair repercussions for the most vulnerable. This campaign is part of TAP’s anti-poverty manifesto, The Real Agenda .   What is Council Tax? Council Tax is a tax based on property value. It was first introduced, by the former Conservative Prime Minister, John Major, in 1993, by the Local Government Finance Act 1992, replacing the Poll Tax.  Each property is assigned a band (A to H), the higher the band, the higher the tax. Some individuals and some properties are exempts to the tax; others can get a reduction. Council Tax is collected by local authorities, called “collecting authorities”. The problems Since the localisation of council tax from central government to local authorities and, the abolishment of the Council Tax Benefit, in 2013, the tax has increased greatly. Under pressure, local authorities’ council tax schemes – replacing the Council Tax Benefit, have been less generous and has made whatever financial support available out of reach to many. In the London Borough of Lewisham, for instance, Residents could apply for and receive council tax benefit if they were too ill to work or/and unemployed, now for disabled people to be eligible for a reduction, or exemption, they need to have installed aids – such as a ramp. For those suffering with mental illnesses, only “severely mentally impaired”, those suffering with psychosis for instance, are eligible. These changes make it more difficult for anyone else to, who is financially struggling, to apply. Fundings to local authorities are decreased greatly, for the last 10 years. The way for them to balance their budget is to increase Council Tax, putting financial pressure on the most vulnerable and the poorest local residents. “Councils have weathered central government budget cuts of 40% over the last 10 years.” The Council Tax Collection Coalition  ( A group of organisations seeking to improve Council Tax collection practices for both residents and councils and to highlight the urgent need for reform) writes in a letter to the Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee.  writes.  “Council tax is an increasingly vital component of the local government funding system, accounting for 60% of councils’ core spending power 2021/22, up from 40% in 2009/10.3.” Furthermore, individuals failing to pay their monthly council tax bill, for lack of financial means, are then asked to pay the full yearly amount. If this is impossible, which it often is, tenants are fined £1000, on top of their exciting debts, increasing their debt further, without the offer of support. The last stage is a summons to court. If the court decides the person is still liable to pay their bill, might result in bailiffs knocking at their door and/ or a sentence of up to 3 months in jail.   The Impact on the most vulnerable tenants John* moved into a new build housing association 2 bedroom flat. When he contacted the Council Tax office, they had no record of this new building. John was asked to send them plans of the property and other proof of residency. After a year, one day, the council tax office withdrew £800 from his bank account without any notice. When he spoke to an officer, he was told they took the amount they thought was appropriate for his property. “I was never in debt with my bank before. I was in overdraft for the first time in my life. Since, I have been struggling to pay my council tax bills. I have been indebting for years now, as they keep fining me. I live in fear of bailiffs and summons.”   A letter from the Council Tax Collection Coalition t o The Rt Hon David Gauke, Chair of the Independent Sentencing Review. s tates : “The threat of imprisonment is often overemphasised, and the perceived risk of this alone is enough to cause long-lasting, damaging consequences  – for those who fall behind, and their loved ones. Single parents, most often women, describe immense stress and pressure stemming from this threat as the only adult in their household, fearing what would happen to their children should this become their reality. One debt advice client – a single mother in her 50s – said the fact this could be done made her “very anxious and scared” and meant her children “both suffered from anxiety and got upset when anybody came to the door.” TAP proposes cancelling council tax for all renters,  who tend to be lower income groups   “The campaign outlines how the £17 billion  shortfall in council tax revenue from removing renters could be offset by: ·       Shifting the burden to landowners and homeowners , who benefit most from rising property values (the cost of an average home goes up in value more than the cost of the average council tax), ·       Or recalibrating council tax bands to reflect modern property values and ownership status , not outdated 1991 valuations.”   It is clear: a tax based on property value, and not on what people can afford, with a collection system pushing renters into further debt and poverty; punishing them with fines, harassment from bailiffs and with the threats of imprisonment needs to be abolished. Uk renters deserve to live free of fears of repercussions to lead more fulfilling lives. * Name changed for anonymity                                                           * Our Role in Creating Change We cannot wait for someone else to act. It’s time to demand better for the millions struggling in poverty—and for the millions more living one unexpected expense away from it. ·       Join us in advocating for a compassionate, fairer society. Here’s how you can help: ·       Speak Up: Contact your MP and demand investment in social care, living wages, and affordable housing. ·       Get Involved: Volunteer or donate to organisations like TAP that fight for systemic change. ·       Stay Informed: Follow TAP’s work and share their message to build awareness. Together, we can create a society where no one is left behind. Let’s make compassion the cornerstone of our nation’s future.   Sylvie Rouhani Deputy Editor, Taxpayers Against Poverty July 2025