London 8 October 2026: Taxpayers Against Poverty (TAP) welcomes proposals to boost jobs, enterprise and economic growth—but questions a political agenda that appears to prioritise inherited wealth over preventing poverty. Conservative Party leader, Kemi Badenoch's Conference speech offered a clear indication of the direction in which she wants to take her party. Lower taxes, less regulation, reduced welfare spending and greater emphasis on individual responsibility were central themes. There were some welcome ideas, particularly around youth employment, apprenticeships, economic growth and removing barriers to home ownership. These deserve serious consideration, regardless of which political party proposes them. But the headline announcement raises a fundamental question about priorities. At a time when around 14 million people are living in poverty, is reducing inheritance tax for a relatively small number of wealthier families really the most pressing reform Britain needs? Badenoch proposed exempting family homes from inheritance tax and increasing the allowance for other inherited assets. Fewer than 5% of estates (estimated at 30,000 people) currently pay inheritance tax, and her proposals would reduce that number substantially further. People argue that individuals should be able to pass on the wealth they have accumulated without facing additional taxation. That is a legitimate position, and protecting ordinary families from disproportionate taxation deserves consideration. But there is another side to this argument. Millions of people have little prospect of accumulating substantial wealth to pass on because they are struggling to afford housing, energy, food and other essentials today. Tom Burgess, Chief Executive of Taxpayers Against Poverty, said: "There is something deeply troubling about a political agenda whose headline offer is further tax relief for families inheriting valuable property, while proposing to reduce spending on support for people experiencing financial hardship. "We should be asking how Britain can create greater prosperity and opportunity for everyone, not simply how those who already have substantial assets can retain more of them. If we are serious about reducing poverty, every major tax and spending proposal should be judged by whether it improves financial security, increases opportunity and prevents people falling into hardship." The contrast with Andy Burnham's recent conference speech was striking. Burnham sought to connect housing, care, living costs, opportunity and regional prosperity within a broader argument about building a Preventative State. TAP welcomed that direction while making clear that the Government must now demonstrate how it will deliver and fund its ambitions. Badenoch offered a more explicitly ideological vision centred on lower taxes, smaller government and individual responsibility. But the speech also contained a long list of individual commitments, accompanied by extensive criticism of Labour, Reform and other political opponents. There is nothing wrong with robust political disagreement. Opposition parties have an important responsibility to challenge Government. However, TAP believes Britain would benefit from more emphasis on constructive solutions and less on political point-scoring. The real test of any party's economic programme should be whether its proposals work together to reduce poverty, improve living standards, create opportunity and strengthen long-term prosperity. Tom Burgess concluded: "But the headline message from this conference leaves us asking a fundamental question: why should reducing taxes for families inheriting substantial property wealth take priority over improving the prospects of millions who are struggling financially today? Britain needs more than a collection of tax cuts and spending reductions. It needs an integrated economic strategy that creates prosperity, shares opportunity and prevents poverty.” Ends For media enquiries, interviews, or comment: Tom Burgess, CEO, Taxpayers Against PovertyEmail: media@taxpayersagainstpovery.org Website: www.taxpayersagainstpoverty.org.uk About Taxpayers Against PovertyTaxpayers against Poverty is an independent, non-partisan organisation campaigning for practical policies that prevent poverty, reduce inequality and unnecessary financial hardship, and create better long-term value for taxpayers. Its current policy programme includes The Prevention Dividend, Connected Britain, Green Prosperity, Location, Location plus tax reform, housing, transport, and inclusive economic growth. TAP was founded by the late Rev Paul Nicolson and is led by Tom Burgess, author of From Here to Prosperity, a new political agenda for a sustainable economy and greater social justice, which proposes taxing wealth more and income less. TAP is part of Real Agenda Network, a not-for-profit social enterprise bringing together campaigns, research, media and public engagement to tackle poverty, inequality and the barriers preventing people from thriving, this includes Compassion in Politics which seeks to bring more honesty, respect and compassion into political life; The Progressive Policy Unit (PPU) which develops practical, evidence-based proposals on poverty prevention, economic fairness, taxation, public services and social wellbeing; Purple Shoots which helps people excluded from mainstream finance start sustainable microbusinesses by providing small ethical loans alongside practical support and mentoring, creating income, independence and stronger local economies as well as Real Agenda Radio (RAR) which is the network’s media platform, providing podcasts, interviews and commentary that amplify under-reported issues, challenge conventional thinking and give a voice to people working for positive social change.

Media Comment: London 1 October 2026: Taxpayers Against Poverty (TAP) welcomes much of the direction set out by Prime Minister Andy Burnham in his first Party Conference speech as Prime Minister. Although TAP is independent and non-partisan, there is significant alignment between several of the ambitions outlined by the Prime Minister and the agenda TAP has been developing around poverty prevention, reducing the cost of living and building prosperity that reaches every part of Britain. The Prime Minister spoke about making essentials such as housing, water and energy more affordable; expanding council housing; tackling poor-quality rented homes; creating a National Care Service; increasing opportunity for young people; strengthening regional economies and restoring confidence in Britain's ability to solve difficult problems. He also argued that Britain needs to move beyond political point-scoring towards problem-solving and seek greater cross-party support for long-term reform. (The Labour Party) Those are important ambitions. They also build on the Prime Minister's earlier commitment to a Preventative State—an idea that sits particularly closely with TAP's central argument: Britain must become much better at preventing poverty rather than continually paying to manage its consequences. From managing problems to preventing them The Prime Minister's emphasis on housing provides a good example. Poor-quality, insecure and unaffordable housing doesn't simply create a housing problem. It can contribute to debt, poor health, homelessness, disrupted education and economic insecurity. Preventing those problems before they reach crisis is better for people and potentially better for taxpayers. The same principle applies to energy, transport, employment, skills and social care. That is why TAP has developed The Prevention Dividend—our proposal that government should assess preventative investment not simply according to what it costs today, but also according to the future public expenditure it can avoid and the additional prosperity it can create. Costs avoided + prosperity created = The Prevention Dividend. The Prime Minister's conference agenda also overlaps with TAP's wider work on Green Prosperity, Connected Britain, housing, inclusive enterprise and reducing the cost of living. His call to restore optimism and stop running Britain down is also welcome. TAP has consistently argued that Britain has enormous assets—its people, businesses, universities, institutions, infrastructure and accumulated wealth—and should be much more confident about its ability to build a fairer and more prosperous future. But ambition isn't enough. There is, however, an important distinction between setting a direction and changing people's lives. Delivery is now the test. The Government faces difficult fiscal choices, and some of the Prime Minister's larger proposals are intended for the next Parliament rather than immediate implementation. His proposed National Care Service, for example, is a longer-term commitment. (The Labour Party) People struggling with rent, energy, food, transport and other essential costs cannot live on long-term aspirations alone. TAP therefore wants to see the preventative principle embedded much more deeply into the machinery of government now. We are proposing a Prevention Test for major government decisions, a Treasury function capable of identifying the cross-departmental financial returns from prevention, and measurable pilots demonstrating where earlier intervention can reduce future costs. We also believe the Government needs to be prepared to undertake structural reforms rather than repeatedly reaching for short-term fixes. That includes serious reform of Britain's outdated property-tax system, greater investment in regional connectivity, building homes around existing infrastructure, reducing household energy requirements and creating more routes into secure employment and enterprise. An opportunity for a different kind of politics One aspect of the Prime Minister's speech deserves particular support from across the political spectrum. He said he wanted to seek cross-party support for his Plan for Britain and argued that Westminster too often prizes “point-scoring over problem-solving.” (The Labour Party) Poverty prevention should be exactly the kind of issue around which Parliament can work differently. TAP's Prioritise Poverty Prevention Pledge has already been signed by 32 MPs from five political parties—including Andy Burnham before he became Prime Minister. Those MPs will disagree about many policies. That is democracy. But they have agreed on an important principle: government should give greater priority to preventing poverty and inequality. We now want to see that principle translated into measurable action. Tom Burgess, Chief Executive of Taxpayers Against Poverty, said: “There was much in the Prime Minister's speech that we welcome. The emphasis on affordable essentials, housing, opportunity, regional prosperity and long-term reform is closely aligned with the agenda TAP has been developing. But the most important word now is delivery.” “The Government has an opportunity to move Britain away from endlessly managing expensive social problems and towards preventing more of them in the first place. “That means being prepared to undertake serious reform, measure outcomes rather than announcements, and keep going when difficult changes encounter opposition. TAP will support good ideas, challenge Government where we believe it should go further, and continue putting practical solutions on the table.” The Prime Minister ended his conference speech by arguing that Britain needs “honesty, ideas and a clear direction.” (The Labour Party) TAP agrees. There is reason for optimism about the direction now being discussed. The challenge is to turn that optimism into lower living costs, greater opportunity, less poverty and prosperity that is genuinely shared. That is how the success of the Preventative State should ultimately be judged. For media enquiries, interviews, or comment: Tom Burgess, CEO, Taxpayers Against PovertyEmail: media@taxpayersagainstpovery.org Website: www.taxpayersagainstpoverty.org.uk About Taxpayers Against PovertyTaxpayers against Poverty is an independent, non-partisan organisation campaigning for practical policies that prevent poverty, reduce inequality and unnecessary financial hardship, and create better long-term value for taxpayers. Its current policy programme includes The Prevention Dividend, tax reform, housing, transport, Green Prosperity and inclusive economic growth. TAP was founded by the late Rev Paul Nicolson and is led by Tom Burgess, author of From Here to Prosperity, a new political agenda for a sustainable economy and greater social justice, which proposes taxing wealth more and income less. TAP is part of Real Agenda Ltd, a not-for-profit social enterprise bringing together campaigns, research, media and public engagement to tackle poverty, inequality and the barriers preventing people from thriving, this includes Compassion in Politics which seeks to bring more honesty, respect and compassion into political life as well as The Progressive Policy Unit (PPU) which develops practical, evidence-based proposals on poverty prevention, economic fairness, taxation, public services and social wellbeing.

TAP TALK is TAP's regular mailing to our 10,000 supporters. Get your copy direct to your inbox by signing up on our home page 30 September 2026 Yesterday, the Prime Minister told the Labour conference and the country that Britain isn't perfect. But he promised people "will believe again, we will hope again". We know the cost of living remains too high. Millions experience financial insecurity. Infrastructure needs investment. Housing is unaffordable for too many, and inequality holds people and communities back. But there is another side to Britain that we don't talk about enough. We are a wealthy, innovative and extraordinarily capable country. We have world-class universities, science and research, creative industries, successful businesses and entrepreneurs, great cultural institutions, an extraordinary voluntary sector and communities full of people wanting to make things better. Our problem isn't that Britain lacks talent, wealth or ideas. It is that we don't always use them well enough—or share the prosperity they create widely enough. And that is something we can change. Britain can be ambitious again. At Taxpayers Against Poverty, we don't believe campaigning against poverty should simply mean describing what's wrong. We want to talk about what Britain could become: Fewer people falling into poverty because we prevent it before it happens. Work and enterprise rewarded, with prosperity shared more fairly. Affordable homes built alongside the transport and infrastructure people need. Clean energy delivering warmer homes, lower bills and new industries. Towns and cities connected to opportunity. Entrepreneurs able to succeed regardless of where they started. A tax system that supports productive work while asking accumulated wealth and land to contribute fairly. This isn't about lowering our ambitions because times are difficult. It's about raising them. From managing decline to creating prosperity For too long, Britain's political conversation has focused on what we cannot afford. We think there is a better question: What could Britain achieve if we invested intelligently in preventing problems and creating prosperity? That is why TAP has developed The Prevention Dividend. Instead of waiting until people become homeless, sick, indebted or economically excluded and then spending billions dealing with the consequences, government should invest earlier where prevention works: Better housing and transport. Skills and enterprise. Warmer homes. Fairer taxation. Greater economic opportunity. The return isn't simply lower future public expenditure. It is prosperity created. We want Britain to lead by example Imagine Britain showing that a modern economy doesn't have to choose between economic success and social justice: Encourage enterprise and reduce inequality. Build wealth and share opportunity. Tackle climate change and lower household costs. Maintain strong public finances and prevent poverty. Britain could become an international example of how innovation, enterprise and investment can go hand in hand with ensuring nobody is unnecessarily left behind. That's a Britain worth talking up. But positive change doesn't happen because somebody writes a good policy paper. We have to campaign for it. Powerful interests defend the status quo. Governments face immediate pressures. Long-term reforms get postponed. Good ideas disappear beneath tomorrow's headlines. That's why TAP matters. We take practical proposals directly to Government and Parliament. The Prevention Dividend, property-tax reform, Connected Britain, My Home Station, Green Prosperity and inclusive enterprise form one integrated agenda: Prevent poverty. Build prosperity. We don't expect Government to accept every proposal we make. But we will keep pushing, questioning, proposing and building support for reforms capable of making people's lives materially better. And you make that possible. Help us build the campaign More than 10,000 people have joined the TAP movement. To everyone who has donated already: thank you. Your support has enabled a small organisation to develop serious policy proposals, put them before decision-makers, engage MPs and build collaborations. Now we need to increase that pressure. We want to campaign for a Britain confident enough to reform what isn't working, invest in its future and ensure greater prosperity reaches everyone. If you want to help us make that case, please support the campaign today. Become a Prosperity Partner A regular gift of £5, £10 or £20 a month gives us the dependable income we need to plan ahead and keep our campaigns moving. Or: Make a one-off donation Britain has extraordinary strengths. Let's stop allowing our national conversation to be dominated by everything we cannot do. Let's talk Britain up—and then do the work required to make that optimism justified. With best wishes, Tom BurgessChief ExecutiveTaxpayers Against Poverty P.S. Optimism without action changes nothing. TAP wants to turn positive ideas into practical reform—reducing the cost of living, preventing poverty and creating prosperity that reaches every part of Britain. Please become a Prosperity Partner today and help us make it happen.

Calls to weaken the pension triple lock miss the bigger question: if Government needs more revenue, it should look to accumulated wealth rather than weakening an important protection against pensioner hardship London 15 September 2026: Taxpayers Against Poverty (TAP) has urged the Government to resist calls to weaken or abolish the State Pension triple lock simply as a means of reducing public spending, arguing that doing so would run counter to the Prime Minister’s ambition to build a Preventative State. The debate has intensified following new earnings figures which suggest the State Pension is likely to rise by around 3.9% next April under the triple lock, which guarantees an annual increase by the highest of average earnings growth, inflation or 2.5%. Critics argue that the mechanism is becoming increasingly expensive and unpredictable. The Institute for Fiscal Studies says the triple lock has materially increased both the generosity and cost of the State Pension, while the Resolution Foundation has called for its replacement with a long-term earnings link. TAP accepts that the long-term structure of the State Pension should be kept under review, particularly to ensure fairness between generations. But it argues that cutting pension protection principally to save the Treasury money would be the wrong starting point. Tom Burgess, Chief Executive of Taxpayers Against Poverty, said: “The triple lock exists for a reason. Millions of pensioners depend heavily on the State Pension and many have very little financial flexibility when food, heating, housing and other essential costs rise. Protecting their income is an example of preventative policy. It helps stop people falling into poverty rather than waiting until they are struggling and then paying to deal with the consequences. That is exactly the principle behind the Preventative State. As TAP continually argues: it makes more sense to prevent poverty than manage it.” The Government itself says the triple lock helps ensure pensioners’ incomes keep pace with living costs and wages. More than 12 million pensioners received an increase of up to £575 this year following the 4.8% uprating in April. Protect the poorest pensioners—but recognise that not every pensioner is poor TAP believes the debate should avoid presenting all pensioners as having the same financial circumstances. Some pensioners have substantial property, investment and pension wealth. Others live almost entirely on the State Pension and associated benefits. That distinction matters. Tom Burgess continued: “There is a perfectly legitimate debate to be had about the long-term sustainability and design of the triple lock. But we should not confuse that with the question of whether Britain can afford to protect pensioners from poverty. If reform is considered, the first test must be whether people on low and modest retirement incomes remain properly protected. Saving money by allowing the poorest pensioners to become poorer would be a false economy.” TAP argues that allowing pensioner incomes to fall behind essential living costs can create costs elsewhere through increased poverty, ill health, debt, housing insecurity and greater demand on public services. That reflects TAP’s Prevention Dividend principle: government should consider not merely the immediate cost of preventing hardship, but the future public expenditure avoided, and economic and social benefits created by doing so. If Government needs money, ask where Britain’s wealth has gone TAP says the more fundamental issue is how Government should raise the revenue required to fund decent pensions, public services and investment without continually increasing the burden on ordinary working households. Britain is a wealthy country, but that wealth is distributed very unevenly. TAP argues that much of today’s private wealth has not been created in isolation. Businesses depend upon employees, customers, infrastructure, education, healthcare, legal systems, public investment and the wider society in which they operate. In other words, wealth is collectively enabled even when its ownership becomes highly concentrated. Tom Burgess said: “If the Treasury needs additional revenue, we should have a much bigger conversation about where that money should come from. Rather than starting with pensioners or continually taxing people’s wages, Government should look more seriously at the enormous stock of wealth that our economy and society have helped create but which is now disproportionately concentrated in the hands of a relatively small number of people. TAP has consistently argued for taxing productive work less and accumulated wealth more fairly. That includes serious reform of the taxation of land, property and very substantial wealth. “The objective shouldn’t be to punish people for being successful. It should be to ensure that the prosperity we collectively help create contributes fairly towards the society that made it possible.” The wrong argument TAP believes the debate should therefore move beyond a simplistic choice between protecting pensioners and protecting taxpayers. Tom Burgess concluded: “We shouldn’t set younger people against older people. Both generations are facing real economic pressures, and neither benefits from an economy in which wealth and opportunity become increasingly concentrated. The question shouldn’t simply be: how much can we save by weakening the triple lock? It should be: how do we ensure everybody can have a financially secure retirement—and how do we fund that fairly? “A Government committed to prevention should be extremely cautious about removing something that helps prevent poverty simply because prevention appears expensive on today’s balance sheet. Preventing poverty costs money. Allowing poverty to happen costs money too. “That is the calculation Government needs to make.” ENDS For media enquiries, interviews, or comment: Tom Burgess, CEO, Taxpayers Against PovertyEmail: media@taxpayersagainstpovery.org Website: www.taxpayersagainstpoverty.org.uk About Taxpayers Against Poverty Taxpayers against Poverty (TAP) is an independent, non-partisan organisation campaigning for practical policies that prevent poverty, reduce inequality and unnecessary financial hardship, and create better long-term value for taxpayers. Its current policy programme includes The Prevention Dividend, tax reform, housing, transport, Green Prosperity and inclusive economic growth. TAP was founded by the late Rev Paul Nicolson and is led by Tom Burgess, author of From Here to Prosperity, a new political agenda for a sustainable economy and greater social justice, which proposes taxing wealth more and income less. TAP is part of Real Agenda Ltd, a not-for-profit social enterprise bringing together campaigns, research, media and public engagement to tackle poverty, inequality and the barriers preventing people from thriving, this includes Compassion in Politics which seeks to bring more honesty, respect and compassion into political life as well as The Progressive Policy Unit (PPU) which develops practical, evidence-based proposals on poverty prevention, economic fairness, taxation, public services and social wellbeing.

Delivering 1.2 Million Homes Through Station-Centred Development Prepared by: Taxpayers Against Poverty as part of series of policy briefs submitted to government and selected MPs Date: July 2026 Executive Summary Britain faces a chronic housing shortage, rising housing costs, growing regional inequality, and increasing pressure on infrastructure and transport systems. At the same time, vast areas of underutilised land exist within walking distance of railway stations outside major cities — locations that are inherently sustainable, connected, and economically productive. This paper proposes a bold national strategy to deliver up to 1.2 million new homes through a coordinated programme of rail-linked development focused on land within approximately 800 metres (10 minutes’ walk) of railway stations outside major urban centres. The proposal would combine: · strategic land assembly by local authorities, · transport-oriented development, · infrastructure-led regeneration, · public land value capture, · and long-term community planning. Rather than uncontrolled sprawl, the strategy would create compact, walkable, mixed-income communities linked directly to employment and public transport. The objective is not simply to build more housing.It is to: · reduce housing costs, · improve regional growth, · strengthen local economies, · reduce car dependency, · support public transport viability, · and create more balanced national prosperity. 1. The National Challenge Britain’s housing crisis is now directly impacting: · economic productivity, · family formation, · labour mobility, · public health, · poverty levels, · and intergenerational fairness. Key pressures include: · unaffordable housing costs, · insufficient social and affordable housing, · weak regional investment, · declining town centres, · infrastructure imbalance, · and excessive concentration of growth in a small number of major cities. Meanwhile, many towns with existing railway infrastructure remain significantly underdeveloped. This represents a major missed opportunity. 2. The Core Proposal A National Station Growth Programme The government would establish a long-term national programme to support development around railway stations outside major cities. Core Target Deliver up to 1.2 million homes over 10–15 years through development within walking distance of qualifying railway stations. Geographic Focus · Existing railway stations outside major metropolitan cores · Small towns · Market towns · commuter settlements · secondary urban centres · underutilised rail corridors Development Radius Primary focus: · land within approximately 800 metres of stations · equivalent to around a 10-minute walk This aligns with emerging planning analysis around sustainable station-led development. (Lichfields) 3. Why Railway Station Development Makes Sense Economic Benefits Rail-linked housing: · improves labour mobility, · supports regional productivity, · increases access to employment, · and strengthens local high streets and services. Research cited in planning analysis suggests rail-station growth could unlock housing at significant scale in economically productive regions. (Lichfields) Environmental Benefits Station-centred communities: · reduce car dependency, · reduce congestion, · lower emissions, · and support public transport viability. This represents a more sustainable alternative to low-density sprawl. Social Benefits Done properly, rail-linked growth can: · create mixed-income communities, · improve access to affordable housing, · support younger families, · and regenerate struggling towns. 4. Local Authority Land Acquisition Model Strategic Public Land Assembly Local authorities would be empowered to: · identify suitable land around stations, · acquire land through negotiated purchase or existing compulsory purchase mechanisms, · masterplan development zones, · and retain long-term strategic control. Why Public Land Assembly Matters Currently, large increases in land value generated by planning permission are overwhelmingly captured privately. Under this model: · local authorities retain greater control, · infrastructure can be planned coherently, · speculative land banking is reduced, · and a greater proportion of uplift can fund: o transport, o schools, o GP surgeries, o parks, o and affordable housing. This follows successful international models of transport-led development. 5. The Housing Model Mixed Tenure Communities Development should include: · affordable housing, · social housing, · market housing, · rental housing, · later-life housing, · and key worker housing. Density Principles Typical density: · 40–70 dwellings per hectare depending on local character and transport capacity. This is consistent with emerging National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF)thinking around higher density near stations. (Lichfields) Design Principles Development should prioritise: · walkability, · green space, · local services, · cycling, · community facilities, · and strong architectural standards. The aim should be beautiful, sustainable communities rather than high-density dormitory estates. 6. Infrastructure and Transport Integration Rail Capacity Development should be tied to: · increased service frequency, · station upgrades, · integrated bus links, · and active travel infrastructure. One major advantage of this strategy is that additional population density helps improve rail viability and passenger demand. Planning analysis suggests many lower-frequency stations currently suffer from a “frequency trap” where insufficient local population suppresses service improvements. (Lichfields) New housing growth could help justify: · improved timetables, · greater rail investment, · and stronger local economies. 7. Funding and Delivery Mechanisms Potential Funding Sources · Public infrastructure bonds · UK Infrastructure Bank · Pension fund investment · Land value capture · Joint ventures · Development corporations · Strategic housing funds Delivery Vehicles Potential structures include: · Local Development Corporations · Combined Authorities · Regional Growth Partnerships · Public-private joint ventures · Community land trusts 8. Economic Impact A national station-led growth programme could: · increase housing supply substantially, · reduce housing pressure, · support economic growth, · create construction employment, · strengthen regional towns, · increase rail usage, · and stimulate private investment. Importantly, it would shift Britain toward infrastructure-led strategic planning rather than fragmented speculative development. 9. Political and Strategic Advantages This policy has the potential to unite: · economic growth, · housing delivery, · environmental sustainability, · regional regeneration, · and public transport investment. It avoids the false choice between: · protecting communities, · and building homes. Instead, it focuses growth in the most logical and sustainable locations. This could become a defining long-term national infrastructure and housing strategy for Britain. 10. Conclusion Britain cannot solve its housing crisis through piecemeal development alone. A more ambitious approach is required. Railway stations already provide: · connectivity, · infrastructure, · economic access, · and sustainable transport. By focusing strategic growth around them, Britain has an opportunity to: · build up to 1.2 million homes, · revitalise towns, · reduce inequality, · support public transport, · and create more balanced national growth. The opportunity now exists to move beyond reactive planning and toward a coherent national vision for housing and infrastructure. A station-centred development strategy could become one of the most transformative and practical housing policies of the next generation. Sources and contextual references: · Lichfields Planning Analysis · UK National Planning Policy Framework · CLA Planning Reform Analysis · RIBA NPPF Overview For media enquiries, interviews, or comment: Tom Burgess, CEO, Taxpayers Against PovertyEmail: media@taxpayersagainstpovery.org Website: www.taxpayersagainstpoverty.org.uk About Taxpayers Against PovertyTaxpayers against Poverty is a UK-based independent advocacy group dedicated to tackling poverty, inequality, and economic injustice TAP seeks to influence national and local policy by promoting practical economic proposals that have a positive effect on reducing poverty and unnecessary financial hardship using a direct approach to decision makers and other influencers. TAP was founded by the late Rev Paul Nicolson and is led by Tom Burgess, author of From Here to Prosperity, a new political agenda for a sustainable economy and greater social justice, which proposes taxing wealth more and income less. TAP is part of Real Agenda Ltd, a not-for-profit social enterprise bringing together campaigns, research, media and public engagement to tackle poverty, inequality and the barriers preventing people from thriving, this includes Compassion in Politics which seeks to bring more honesty, respect and compassion into political life as well as The Progressive Policy Unit (PPU) which develops practical, evidence-based proposals on poverty prevention, economic fairness, taxation, public services and social wellbeing.

New parliamentary session offers an opportunity to turn the Prime Minister’s “Preventative State” from an ambition into practical government policy London 31 August 2026. As MPs return to Westminster on Tuesday 1 September, Taxpayers Against Poverty (TAP) is calling on the new Government to make preventing poverty, reducing the cost of living and improving financial security central tests of success in its first full parliamentary session under Prime Minister Andy Burnham. The House of Commons returns on 1 September, with the Prime Minister due to face MPs at PMQs the following day. (parliament.uk) TAP has welcomed the Prime Minister’s commitment to building a “more preventative state” and his promise to invest in people’s success rather than continually paying for failure. It believes that principle should now extend across government—not just to homelessness and health, but to housing, taxation, transport, energy, education, employment and economic development. (Gov.UK) Tom Burgess, Chief Executive of Taxpayers Against Poverty, said: “This is an exciting opportunity for a new Government and a new Prime Minister to change the way Britain thinks about poverty. For too long, governments have spent billions managing the consequences of poverty after people have reached crisis point. We support people after they become homeless, after debts become unmanageable, after poor housing damages their health and after disadvantage has become entrenched. Of course, that support must always be there. But surely the greater ambition should be to prevent as many people as possible from reaching crisis in the first place.” The economic case for prevention is already reflected in the Government’s own approach to rough sleeping. In announcing its new programme, the Government cited research estimating that a year of rough sleeping costs more than £20,000 per person compared with around £1,400 for a successful prevention intervention. (Gov.UK) TAP argues that the same economic thinking should be applied much more widely. Its new Prevention Dividend policy framework proposes that Government begins measuring not simply what preventative policies cost today, but the future public expenditure they avoid and the additional economic prosperity they create. TAP describes this as: Costs avoided + prosperity created = The Prevention Dividend. Tom Burgess continued: “The Prime Minister is right to talk about a Preventative State. Now we need to make it real. Housing policy can prevent homelessness. Better transport can connect people with employment. Energy efficiency can permanently reduce household bills. Education can prevent disadvantage becoming entrenched. A fairer tax system can reduce unnecessary pressure on household finances. A stronger productive economy can create the secure, properly rewarded work that is ultimately one of our best defences against poverty. These aren’t separate issues. They are all part of the same challenge.” The call comes as household finances remain under significant pressure. Consumer prices in June 2026 were more than 30% higher than in January 2021, while food prices had risen by more than 39% over the same period. The cost of living also continues to rank among the issues of greatest concern to the British public. (House of Commons Library) TAP welcomes the Government’s early measures to ease household costs but argues that the next stage must address the structural causes of financial insecurity rather than relying predominantly on temporary relief. Six Actions for a Preventative Government As Parliament returns, TAP is calling on the Government to: Make poverty prevention a cross-government objective, rather than leaving it principally to welfare policy. Introduce a Prevention Test for major policies and spending decisions. Establish a small Prevention Unit within HM Treasury to identify and measure the long-term returns from preventative investment. Launch Prevention Investment Pilots across areas including housing, energy, education, debt, employment and transport. Create a National Prevention Account, measuring future expenditure avoided and additional economic value created. Publish an annual Prevention Dividend, allowing taxpayers to see whether earlier intervention is improving lives and reducing future costs. TAP will use the new parliamentary session to intensify its engagement with MPs from all parties. Its Prioritise Poverty Prevention Pledge already has the support of more than 30 MPs across five political parties, and TAP will now seek substantially more parliamentary signatories. Its Prioritise Poverty Prevention Petition, backed by more than 10,000 people, will also be presented to the Prime Minister this autumn. Alongside the campaign, TAP and the Progressive Policy Unit will continue circulating practical policy proposals to MPs and Government covering tax reform, housing, transport, energy, enterprise and regional economic development. TAP is also expanding collaboration with other organisations through the Real Agenda Network, bringing together charities, campaigners, think tanks, specialists and other organisations working to reduce poverty and inequality while allowing each to retain its own identity and independence. Tom Burgess concluded: “This should be a session of Parliament about delivery. The Government has talked about reducing the cost of living and building a Preventative State. We welcome that direction and want to help turn those ambitions into practical policy. But prevention cannot become another political slogan. We need measurable action and we need to keep asking a very simple question of every major government decision: Will this help prevent poverty—or will we simply end up paying to manage its consequences later? TAP intends to keep asking that question throughout this Parliament.” ENDS For media enquiries, interviews, or comment: Tom Burgess, CEO, Taxpayers Against PovertyEmail: media@taxpayersagainstpovery.org Website: www.taxpayersagainstpoverty.org.uk About Taxpayers Against PovertyTaxpayers against Poverty is a UK-based independent advocacy group dedicated to tackling poverty, inequality, and economic injustice TAP seeks to influence national and local policy by promoting practical economic proposals that have a positive effect on reducing poverty and unnecessary financial hardship using a direct approach to decision makers and other influencers. TAP was founded by the late Rev Paul Nicolson and is led by Tom Burgess, author of From Here to Prosperity, a new political agenda for a sustainable economy and greater social justice, which proposes taxing wealth more and income less. TAP is part of Real Agenda Network which brings together campaigns, research, media and public engagement to tackle poverty, inequality and the barriers preventing people from thriving.This includes Compassion in Politics which seeks to bring more honesty, respect and compassion into political life as well as The Progressive Policy Unit (PPU) which develops practical, evidence-based proposals on poverty prevention, economic fairness, taxation, public services and social wellbeing.

Abolish Council Tax, Scrap Business Rates and Tax Land Instead London, 27 July 2026 – Taxpayers Against Poverty (TAP) today called for what it describes as Britain's biggest tax cut for ordinary households and businesses, centred on replacing Council Tax, Stamp Duty and Business Rates with a modern system of Land Value Tax. TAP believes the debate around tax reform has been dominated by the wrong question. Instead of asking, "How do we raise more tax?", Britain should be asking, "How do we reduce the tax burden on working people while creating a fairer and more productive economy?" According to TAP, Land Value Tax should not be presented as a new tax, but as the mechanism for abolishing two of Britain's least popular and most economically damaging taxes. An estimated 69% of the 27m UK housholds would benefit from a reduction in property taxes giving a boost to over 44m people. Those who own the more valuable land will pay more, these are mainly concentrated in South East. Tom Burgess, CEO of Taxpayers Against Poverty, said: "It is very encouraging that the new Prime Minister has said publicly that he is in favour of Land Value Tax so we are looking forward to a positive indication that this will actually happen. There has definitely been more talk in the media, so people are warming to the idea" "For decades, Land Value Tax has been discussed as if it were another tax. That is the wrong conversation. This is actually Britain's biggest tax cut. It means abolishing Council Tax. It means abolishing Stamp Duty. It means abolishing Business Rates. It means reducing taxes on work and creating stronger local economies. The winners are ordinary households, small businesses, high streets and local communities." TAP argues that Council Tax has become one of Britain's most regressive taxes, placing an increasing burden on households regardless of their ability to pay. The organisation proposes: Immediate abolition of Council Tax for renters to give huge boost to cost of living pressures for lower income groups. Immediate abolition of Stamp Duty on house sales A phased replacement of Council Tax with a Land Value Tax paid by landowners rather than occupiers. Replacement of Business Rates with Land Value Tax, reducing costs for small businesses while encouraging productive use of land. TAP believes the reform would fundamentally change incentives across the economy. "Today we tax people for living in their homes, businesses for investing in their premises and entrepreneurs for creating jobs," Tom Burgess said. "Instead, we should tax the underlying land value that is largely created by society through public investment, planning permission and economic development." The organisation says the benefits extend far beyond taxation. A modern Land Value Tax system could: · Reduce the cost of living. · Lower operating costs for independent businesses. · Encourage housebuilding. · Discourage land banking and speculation. · Regenerate town centres. · Support manufacturing and productive investment. · Reduce inequality. · Strengthen local government finances. TAP is also calling for a significant expansion of fiscal devolution, allowing cities and regions to retain Land Value Tax revenues and invest directly in local priorities. Under the proposal, increases in land values created by public investment—such as new railway stations, tram systems or regeneration projects—would help fund further infrastructure rather than flowing entirely into private windfall gains. "This is how many successful cities around the world finance long-term growth," Tom Burgess said. "When public investment creates private land value, it is entirely reasonable that part of that value is reinvested for public benefit." TAP believes the reform should form part of a wider programme that includes: · Lower taxes on work. · Fairer taxation of wealth. · Affordable housing around transport hubs. · Greater powers for cities and regions. · Investment in transport infrastructure. · A stronger focus on wellbeing and inclusive growth. The organisation said the growing political interest in Land Value Tax provides a unique opportunity to move the debate forward. "The question is no longer whether Britain needs tax reform," Tom Burgess concluded. "The question is whether we have the courage to replace outdated taxes with a system that rewards work, supports enterprise, lowers the cost of living and creates prosperity that is shared more widely. This is not about creating a new tax. It is about creating a better Britain." Taxpayers Against Poverty will shortly publish a detailed roadmap setting out how Britain could transition from Council Tax, Stamp Duty and Business Rates to a modern Land Value Tax system over the next Parliament. TAP. is seeking to partner with other organisations seeking to reform property taxes ENDS For media enquiries, interviews, or comment: Tom Burgess, CEO, Taxpayers Against PovertyEmail: media@taxpayersagainstpovery.org Website: www.taxpayersagainstpoverty.org.uk About Taxpayers Against Poverty Taxpayers against Poverty is a UK-based independent advocacy group dedicated to tackling poverty, inequality, and economic injustice TAP seeks to influence national and local policy by promoting practical economic proposals that have a positive effect on reducing poverty and unnecessary financial hardship using a direct approach to decision makers and other influencers. TAP was founded by the late Rev Paul Nicolson and is led by Tom Burgess, author of From Here to Prosperity, a new political agenda for a sustainable economy and greater social justice, which proposes taxing wealth more and income less. TAP is part of Real Agenda Ltd, a not-for-profit social enterprise bringing together campaigns, research, media and public engagement to tackle poverty, inequality and the barriers preventing people from thriving, this includes Compassion in Politics which seeks to bring more honesty, respect and compassion into political life as well as The Progressive Policy Unit (PPU) which develops practical, evidence-based proposals on poverty prevention, economic fairness, taxation, public services and social wellbeing.

TAP welcomes signs of a bold new agenda but warns that lasting reform will require courage, public support and resistance to vested interests London, 20 July 2026 – Taxpayers Against Poverty (TAP) today said the appointment of a new Prime Minister offers Britain a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reshape the country's economic and social future but warned that meaningful reform will only succeed if the Government remains bold in the face of inevitable opposition. The organisation said there are encouraging signs that the new administration is prepared to embrace many of the ideas that campaigners have long argued are essential to reducing poverty, inequality and the cost of living. These include reform of Council Tax, fairer taxation of wealth, greater investment in housing and transport infrastructure, stronger devolution, democratic renewal and a greater focus on inclusive economic growth. Tom Burgess, CEO of Taxpayers Against Poverty, said: "For the first time in many years there is genuine reason for optimism. Britain has an opportunity to move beyond simply managing decline and begin building a country that is fairer, more productive and offers greater opportunity for everyone. The early signs suggest there is a willingness to think more boldly about housing, taxation, infrastructure, democratic reform and economic renewal. Those are precisely the conversations Britain needs." However, TAP warned that ambitious reform will not come easily. History shows that proposals to modernise the economy and make the tax system fairer often face determined resistance from vested interests, sections of the media and those who benefit most from the status quo. "Every significant reform in Britain's history has attracted criticism," Tom Burgess said. "There will undoubtedly be pushback from some wealthy interests, sections of the media and political opponents who are comfortable with the current system. The real test of leadership will not be announcing bold ideas. It will be having the determination to deliver them." TAP believes any new economic programme must be built around a clear national mission: Prevent poverty. Reduce financial hardship. Create opportunity. The organisation argues that Britain has spent decades treating poverty as something to manage rather than something to prevent. "As a country we have become very good at responding to the consequences of poverty," Tom Burgess said. "What we have failed to do is address many of its causes. Preventing poverty should become one of the central tests of every major government decision. If a policy increases financial hardship, it should be reconsidered. If it reduces hardship and expands opportunity, it should be prioritised." TAP believes a successful programme for national renewal should include: Reducing the cost of living. Reforming Council Tax and Business Rates. Taxing work less and wealth more fairly. Building significantly more affordable homes. Investing in modern transport infrastructure. Giving greater powers and financial responsibility to cities and regions. Modernising Parliament and strengthening democracy. Measuring success through wellbeing alongside economic growth. The organisation said these reforms should not be viewed as isolated policies but as part of one connected vision for rebuilding Britain. "The public is looking for more than individual announcements," Tom Burgess added. "People want to know where the country is heading. They want a government with a vision, a coherent plan and the courage to see it through." Over recent months, Taxpayers Against Poverty has submitted a series of policy briefings to parliamentarians and advisers covering poverty prevention, tax reform, housing, infrastructure and democratic renewal. The organisation's Prioritise Poverty Prevention campaign now has the support of more than 10,000 supporters and 30 MPs from five political parties, demonstrating growing momentum behind the call for a prevention-first approach to public policy. Tom Burgess concluded: "Britain has a genuine opportunity to turn the page. But hope alone will not change the country. It will require leadership, persistence and the confidence to withstand those who will argue that meaningful reform is impossible. We believe it is possible. More importantly, we believe Britain cannot afford to miss this opportunity." ENDS For media enquiries, interviews, or comment: Tom Burgess, CEO, Taxpayers Against PovertyEmail: media@taxpayersagainstpovery.org Website: www.taxpayersagainstpoverty.org.uk About Taxpayers Against PovertyTaxpayers against Poverty is a UK-based independent advocacy group dedicated to tackling poverty, inequality, and economic injustice TAP seeks to influence national and local policy by promoting practical economic proposals that have a positive effect on reducing poverty and unnecessary financial hardship using a direct approach to decision makers and other influencers. TAP was founded by the late Rev Paul Nicolson and is led by Tom Burgess, author of From Here to Prosperity, a new political agenda for a sustainable economy and greater social justice, which proposes taxing wealth more and income less. TAP is part of Real Agenda Ltd, a not-for-profit social enterprise bringing together campaigns, research, media and public engagement to tackle poverty, inequality and the barriers preventing people from thriving, this includes Compassion in Politics which seeks to bring more honesty, respect and compassion into political life as well as The Progressive Policy Unit (PPU) which develops practical, evidence-based proposals on poverty prevention, economic fairness, taxation, public services and social wellbeing.

By Tom Burgess, CEO Taxpayers Against Poverty July 2026 For many people, summer is a time to slow down. Airports are full. Motorways are busy. Families are looking forward to time together, sunshine and a well-earned break after another busy year. And they deserve it. But for millions of families across Britain, summer tells a very different story. While some are packing suitcases, others are wondering how they will afford to fill the fridge. While some children count down the days until their holiday begins, others count the days until free school meals return. There is no summer holiday from poverty. · No two weeks off from worrying about paying the rent. · No break from choosing between food and heating. · No pause in the anxiety that comes from watching every pound while trying to make childhood feel normal. For many parents, the school holidays bring an additional financial burden that few politicians ever talk about. · Children are at home all day. · Food bills increase. · Energy bills rise. · Activities cost money. · Holiday clubs are often unaffordable. The pressure on already stretched household budgets becomes even greater. This is what charities increasingly refer to as holiday hunger. But behind that phrase lies something much deeper. It raises a fundamental question: What kind of country have we become if millions of children face a poorer quality of life simply because school has broken up for the summer? This is not an inevitable consequence of modern life. It is the result of political choices. · Choices about wages. · Choices about housing. · Choices about taxation. · Choices about social security. · Choices about whether economic growth benefits everyone or only those already doing well. Britain is one of the wealthiest countries in the world. Yet every summer we watch families struggle to provide what most people would consider the basics. That should concern all of us. Not because anyone should feel guilty about enjoying a holiday. Quite the opposite. Everyone deserves the opportunity to rest, spend time with family and create memories with their children. The problem is that millions simply cannot. That is why we need to move beyond simply managing poverty towards preventing it. At Taxpayers Against Poverty, we argue that poverty prevention should become one of the central objectives of government. Instead of waiting until families reach crisis point, government should create the conditions that prevent hardship from arising in the first place. That means: ensuring work provides enough income to live with dignity reducing the cost of housing reforming outdated taxation investing in affordable transport supporting families before they reach crisis creating an economy where prosperity is more widely shared These are not abstract economic theories. They are practical decisions that determine whether a parent looks forward to summer—or fears it. The debate about poverty often becomes trapped in statistics. Millions below the poverty line. Thousands using food banks. Children experiencing deprivation. Those figures matter. But behind every statistic is a family trying to hold things together. A child who misses out. A parent carrying guilt that no parent should have to carry. That is why poverty is ultimately not only an economic issue. It is about opportunity. Dignity. Security. And hope. Summer should remind us of the kind of Britain we want to build. A Britain where every child has the chance to enjoy the holidays. A Britain where work genuinely provides security. A Britain where parents spend the summer making memories—not calculating supermarket bills. None of this will happen by accident. It requires political courage. It requires long-term thinking. Most importantly, it requires a willingness to invest in people before problems become crises. There may never be a summer holiday from politics. But there can be a future where there is finally a summer holiday from poverty. That is a Britain worth building. For media enquiries, interviews, or comment: Tom Burgess, CEO, Taxpayers Against PovertyEmail: media@taxpayersagainstpovery.org Website: www.taxpayersagainstpoverty.org.uk About Taxpayers Against PovertyTaxpayers against Poverty is a UK-based independent advocacy group dedicated to tackling poverty, inequality, and economic injustice TAP seeks to influence national and local policy by promoting practical economic proposals that have a positive effect on reducing poverty and unnecessary financial hardship using a direct approach to decision makers and other influencers. TAP was founded by the late Rev Paul Nicolson and is led by Tom Burgess, author of From Here to Prosperity, a new political agenda for a sustainable economy and greater social justice, which proposes taxing wealth more and income less. TAP is part of Real Agenda Ltd, a not-for-profit social enterprise bringing together campaigns, research, media and public engagement to tackle poverty, inequality and the barriers preventing people from thriving, this includes Compassion in Politics which seeks to bring more honesty, respect and compassion into political life as well as The Progressive Policy Unit (PPU) which develops practical, evidence-based proposals on poverty prevention, economic fairness, taxation, public services and social wellbeing.

London, 7 July 2026 –The Living Wage Foundation has honoured Taxpayers Against Poverty (TAP) founder late Rev Paul Nicolson, with its 2026 In Memoriam Award, recognising his lifetime of service to social justice and his pioneering contribution to the Living Wage movement. The award recognises Rev Nicolson as "a tireless campaigner for social justice and one of the founding figures behind the Living Wage movement." It highlights his decades of advocacy, including the founding of the Zacchaeus 2000 Trust and Taxpayers Against Poverty, his determination to defend the rights of people living in poverty, and his work to ensure everyone could afford a decent standard of living. The Living Wage Foundation also acknowledged that his pioneering work on minimum income standards helped lay the foundations for today's Living Wage movement. Rev Paul Nicolson founded Taxpayers Against Poverty on a simple but powerful principle: poverty is not inevitable—it is the result of political and economic choices. Throughout his life he challenged policies that trapped people in poverty, campaigned against unfair taxation and debt collection practices, and consistently argued that government should ensure everyone had sufficient income to meet their basic needs with dignity. Tom Burgess, CEO of Taxpayers Against Poverty, accepted the award on behalf of Rev Paul, he said: "This is a fitting and richly deserved tribute to a remarkable man whose ideas and determination changed the national conversation about poverty and fairness. Paul was never interested in simply highlighting injustice. He wanted practical solutions. He believed that no one in one of the world's richest countries should be unable to afford food, heating or a secure home. Long before poverty prevention became part of the national debate, Paul was making the economic as well as the moral case for ensuring people had enough income to live with dignity." Rev Nicolson's work brought together faith, economics and public policy. His campaigns on debt, Council Tax, minimum income standards and the Living Wage influenced charities, academics, churches, parliamentarians and policymakers across the UK. His legacy continues through Taxpayers Against Poverty, which today campaigns for practical reforms to reduce poverty, inequality and financial hardship. Under the Prioritise Poverty Prevention campaign, TAP is working with MPs, charities, businesses and communities to develop policies that prevent poverty rather than simply managing its consequences. Tom Burgess added: "Paul always believed that compassion and sound economics belonged together. Today's award is not only recognition of his extraordinary contribution but also a reminder that his vision remains as relevant today as it was when he first began campaigning. We are proud to continue building on the foundations he laid and to work towards the fairer Britain that he believed was both possible and achievable." The Living Wage Foundation's recognition of Rev Nicolson also reflects the enduring importance of ensuring that work provides a genuine route out of poverty and that public policy is judged by its impact on those with the least. Taxpayers Against Poverty congratulates the Living Wage Foundation on recognising one of the movement's true pioneers and thanks it for ensuring that Rev Paul Nicolson's legacy will continue to inspire future generations of campaigners. About Rev Paul Nicolson Rev Paul Nicolson (1927–2020) was an Anglican priest, social justice campaigner and founder of both the Zacchaeus 2000 Trust and Taxpayers Against Poverty. For more than three decades he campaigned tirelessly against poverty, debt, unfair taxation and inadequate social security, becoming one of the UK's most respected advocates for economic justice. His work on minimum income standards and the Living Wage helped shape national policy debates and inspired countless organisations and individuals working to tackle poverty. ENDS For media enquiries, interviews, or comment: Tom Burgess, CEO, Taxpayers Against PovertyEmail: taxpayersagainstpoverty@gmail.comWebsite: www.taxpayersagainstpoverty.org.uk About Taxpayers Against PovertyTaxpayers against Poverty is a UK-based independent advocacy group dedicated to tackling poverty, inequality, and economic injustice TAP seeks to influence national and local policy by promoting practical economic proposals that have a positive effect on reducing poverty and unnecessary financial hardship using a direct approach to decision makers and other influencers. TAP was founded by the late Rev Paul Nicolson and is led by Tom Burgess, author of From Here to Prosperity, a new political agenda for a sustainable economy and greater social justice, which proposes taxing wealth more and income less. TAP’s sister organisation is Compassion in Politics which seeks to bring more honesty, respect and compassion into political life.

London, 2 July 2026 – Taxpayers Against Poverty (TAP) has welcomed today's unanimous UK Supreme Court judgment against BlueCrest Capital Management, describing it as a significant victory for tax fairness and a reminder that everyone should contribute to society under the same rules. The ruling confirms that investment managers and LLP members who receive fixed remuneration, have no meaningful management role and operate in practice like employees should be taxed as employees rather than benefiting from more favourable partnership tax arrangements. The decision is expected to result in an estimated £200 million in tax and National Insurance liabilities for BlueCrest covering the period from 2014 to 2019. TAP believes the judgment strengthens the principle that the tax system should treat similar economic activity in similar ways, regardless of the legal structures used. Tom Burgess, CEO of Taxpayers Against Poverty, said: "We warmly welcome this judgment. It is an important victory not only for HMRC but for every taxpayer who expects the system to be fair. Public confidence depends on people believing that the same rules apply to everyone. If someone is effectively working as an employee, then they should be taxed as an employee." The Supreme Court also made clear that "significant influence" within a Limited Liability Partnership must arise from genuine legal rights and responsibilities rather than simply being commercially successful or generating high profits. TAP said the judgment is likely to have implications well beyond one hedge fund, affecting asset managers, professional partnerships and other businesses that have relied on complex LLP structures to reduce tax liabilities. The organisation believes the decision forms part of a broader movement towards a tax system that is: · simpler · fairer · more transparent · harder to avoid "This case reinforces one of TAP's long-standing principles," Burgess continued. "People are generally willing to contribute their fair share when they believe everyone else is doing the same. What undermines trust is the perception that sophisticated structures allow some to play by different rules." TAP has consistently argued that reforming the tax system is about much more than raising revenue. "It is about creating confidence that the tax system enables work, enterprise and productive investment while ensuring fairness across the economy. Fairness is not anti-business. It is one of the foundations of a healthy market economy." The organisation noted that today's judgment follows the recent Supreme Court decision in HFFX LLP v HMRC, which similarly rejected arrangements designed to avoid the application of the Salaried Member Rules. Taken together, TAP believes the decisions represent an important step towards closing loopholes and strengthening confidence in Britain's tax system. The additional revenues generated through better tax compliance could help fund measures that directly improve the lives of ordinary people, including reducing the cost of living, lowering taxes on work, investing in public services and supporting poverty prevention. "As Britain considers wider tax reform," Burgess concluded, "today's judgment demonstrates that fairness and economic success are not competing objectives. A tax system that is trusted is ultimately good for business, good for government and good for society." ENDS For media enquiries, interviews, or comment: Tom Burgess, CEO, Taxpayers Against PovertyEmail: media@taxpayersagainstpovery.org Website: www.taxpayersagainstpoverty.org.uk About Taxpayers Against PovertyTaxpayers against Poverty is a UK-based independent advocacy group dedicated to tackling poverty, inequality, and economic injustice TAP seeks to influence national and local policy by promoting practical economic proposals that have a positive effect on reducing poverty and unnecessary financial hardship using a direct approach to decision makers and other influencers. TAP was founded by the late Rev Paul Nicolson and is led by Tom Burgess, author of From Here to Prosperity, a new political agenda for a sustainable economy and greater social justice, which proposes taxing wealth more and income less. TAP is part of Real Agenda Ltd, a not-for-profit social enterprise bringing together campaigns, research, media and public engagement to tackle poverty, inequality and the barriers preventing people from thriving, this includes Compassion in Politics which seeks to bring more honesty, respect and compassion into political life as well as The Progressive Policy Unit (PPU) which develops practical, evidence-based proposals on poverty prevention, economic fairness, taxation, public services and social wellbeing.

London, 29 June 2026 – Taxpayers Against Poverty (TAP) has welcomed today's speech by Andy Burnham, describing it as an encouraging step towards the kind of bold, long-term thinking Britain urgently needs. The organisation said many of the themes outlined in the speech closely reflect proposals that TAP has been advocating for several years, including greater devolution, investment in infrastructure, building more homes, creating stronger regional economies and developing a more inclusive model of economic growth. Tom Burgess, CEO of Taxpayers Against Poverty, said: "What was most encouraging about today's speech was not simply the individual policies, but the optimism, ambition and determination behind them. Britain has spent too long managing decline. People are looking for hope, a clear direction and a government prepared to take bold decisions that improve the lives of ordinary people. Many of the priorities Andy Burnham outlined are closely aligned with the agenda that Taxpayers Against Poverty has consistently promoted – investing in infrastructure, devolving power away from Westminster, building more homes, creating stronger local economies and ensuring economic growth is shared more fairly." TAP believes that Britain now has a genuine opportunity to tackle the underlying causes of poverty, inequality and financial hardship by adopting a coherent programme of reform rather than relying on isolated policy announcements. The organisation has long argued that economic renewal should include: · A modern tax system that rewards work more than wealth. · Greater devolution and fiscal powers for cities and regions. · Major investment in transport and infrastructure. · Large-scale housebuilding linked to transport hubs. · Policies focused on inclusive growth and national wellbeing alongside GDP. · Poverty prevention as a guiding principle across government. Tom Burgess continued: "The real challenge begins now. Bold ideas are often met with resistance—from sections of the media, political opponents and, understandably, from those whose existing financial interests may be affected by change. History shows that meaningful reform is rarely achieved without pushback. Leadership is about having the courage and determination to stay the course when that resistance comes." TAP also welcomed the measured response from the financial markets following today's speech. "It was particularly encouraging that the financial markets responded calmly and sensibly. That should give confidence that ambitious reform and economic credibility are not mutually exclusive. Britain does not have to choose between fairness and growth. In fact, we believe they go hand in hand." The organisation said the next phase will be about translating vision into practical delivery. "People do not expect every problem to be solved overnight. They do expect a government with a clear destination, a connected plan and the determination to deliver it. If Britain is serious about reducing poverty, lowering the cost of living and rebuilding confidence in politics, this is precisely the kind of leadership the country has been waiting for." Taxpayers Against Poverty said it looks forward to working constructively with politicians across the political spectrum to help develop practical policies that turn today's ideas into reality and deliver lasting improvements in living standards, opportunity and prosperity. ENDS For more information, media enquiries, interviews, or comment: Tom Burgess, CEO, Taxpayers Against Poverty Email: media@taxpayersagainstpovery.org Website: www.taxpayersagainstpoverty.org.uk About Real Agenda Ltd Real Agenda Ltd is a not-for-profit social enterprise bringing together campaigns, research, media and public engagement to tackle poverty, inequality and the barriers preventing people from thriving. Through its network of organisations, Real Agenda works to promote practical, evidence-based solutions that create a fairer and more compassionate society. Taxpayers against Poverty (TAP) is a national campaigning organisation founded by the late Rev. Paul Nicolson. TAP works to expose the causes and consequences of poverty and advocates for policies that ensure everyone can meet their basic needs and participate fully in society. Compassion in Politics (CIP) is a cross-party movement dedicated to putting compassion at the heart of political decision-making. It works with politicians, public institutions and citizens to encourage a more human-centred approach to public policy and public life. The Progressive Policy Unit (PPU) is Real Agenda’s research and policy development arm. It develops practical, evidence-based proposals on poverty prevention, economic fairness, taxation, public services and social wellbeing. Real Agenda Radio (RAR) is the media platform, providing podcasts, interviews and commentary that amplify under-reported issues, challenge conventional thinking and give a voice to people working for positive social change. RAR has been dormant for a couple of years and due to be reactivated later in 2026) Together, these organisations combine campaigning, research, media and public engagement to advance practical solutions that reduce poverty, strengthen communities and build a more inclusive economy.