London 14 January 2025: Taxpayers Against Poverty (TAP) is calling for urgent action to address the collapse of public services that millions of people across the country rely on. This follows concerns expressed by economists in the media that Britain is on the cusp of stagflation, a vicious cycle of inflation, high interest rates and poor growth, with potential further cuts in public services, despite the initial optimism of a fresh government.
Tom Burgess, Executive Director of TAP said:
“To achieve inclusive growth the focus needs to be on improving the quality and accessibility of these services to help lower-income groups escape the poverty trap. To accomplish this, we must change the national conversation around wealth and its role in building a stronger society.”
“The current economic system allows wealth to accumulate in the hands of a few, even though it is created by the collective work of many. This imbalance not only entrenches inequality but also undermines the very fabric of our society. We believe it’s time for a fundamental shift: wealthy individuals and corporations must reinvest in the public services that enable all of us all to thrive.”
“This is not about imposing more taxes for the sake of taxation or just filling black holes; it’s about recognising the benefits that strong public services bring to the entire nation. High-quality healthcare, education, social care, and infrastructure create opportunities for everyone, including those who are struggling to make ends meet. These services also lay the foundation for economic growth, innovation, and stability—conditions that benefit businesses and individuals alike.”
TAP calls on wealthy individuals and corporations to step up and contribute to rebuilding the services that helped them succeed. This is not just a moral imperative but also an investment in the nation’s future. Public services are the safety net and the springboard that enable people to escape poverty, develop their potential, and participate fully in society.
The current narrative around taxation often pits taxpayers against one another, creating a false divide between "taxpayers" and "benefit recipients." In reality, we all create wealth through our collective contributions to society, and we all rely on public services in one form or another. By shifting the focus from individual burdens to collective benefits, we can build a fairer, more inclusive economy that works for everyone.
Taxpayers Against Poverty asks policymakers, business leaders, and individuals to embrace a new vision of shared responsibility. By reinvesting wealth into the public services that underpin our society, we can create a future where no one is left behind.
We invite the media, advocacy groups, and citizens to join us in this effort. Together, we can change the narrative and build a better future for all.
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About Taxpayers Against Poverty: Taxpayers Against Poverty is an independent organization advocating for policies that ensure dignity, fairness, and economic justice for all citizens. We believe in a society where everyone has access to the resources, they need to live fulfilling lives, free from poverty.