British millionaires urge PM Burnham to adopt wealth tax

More than 100 British-based millionaires, including broadcaster Gary Lineker, have publicly called on new Prime Minister Andy Burnham to implement a wealth tax, declaring they are "here to stay" and can afford to pay more. The open letter, organized by the campaign group Patriotic Millionaires UK, was published on July 22, 2026, and urges the government to target extreme wealth to fund public services and reduce inequality.

Signatories to the letter include prominent figures such as film director Richard Curtis, author Val McDermid, former Greggs chairman Ian Gregg, and economist Gary Stevenson. The group argues that taxes should not fall on ordinary workers but on the very richest whose income derives from held wealth. "We want you to tax us," the letter states. "We can afford it." It describes the signatories as a patriotic group who love the country and want it to succeed.

The call adds to the early policy pressures facing Prime Minister Burnham, who entered office on July 20, 2026. Since taking office, his government has announced a cap on most bus fares in England at 2 pounds, effective from January 1, 2027, and a cut to VAT on electricity bills. These cost-of-living...