LONDON, UK — 23 June 2025  — Taxpayers Against Poverty ( TAP)  has today announced its full support for the Fairer Share   campaign to replace the UK’s outdated and unjust Council Tax with a Proportional Property Tax based on up-to-date property values and paid by owners, not renters. This aligns with TAP’s campaign to Cancel Council Tax for Renters  — a central plank of its Real Agenda Policy Platform  to reduce poverty and economic inequality by lowering living costs and boosting income for people on low and modest incomes. “The current Council Tax system is fundamentally unjust,” said Tom Burgess, CEO Taxpayers Against Poverty. “It penalises renters and people living in less valuable homes, while owners of multimillion-pound properties pay proportionally far less. A Proportional Property Tax would reverse that injustice and put fairness at the heart of local taxation.” TAP’s proposal would shift the burden of local taxation from tenants to landlords, reflecting who owns the asset and who has the long-term financial benefit. It would also bring much-needed clarity and transparency to the system and include safeguards to ensure no unfair rent increases. Andrew Dixon, Founder of Fairer Share , said: “We are delighted to have the support of Taxpayers Against Poverty. Council Tax is a broken system that punishes those with the least and lets the wealthy off the hook. A Proportional Property Tax would be fairer, simpler, and would put more money into the pockets of families who need it most.” TAP is calling on political leaders to back the Fairer Share campaign and commit to replacing Council Tax with a modern system that: ·       Reflects real property values ·       Makes owners, not tenants, responsible for payment ·       Reduces living costs for millions ·       Raises local revenue in a fair and progressive way This change would be a decisive step toward ending the poverty premium and building a more compassionate and inclusive economy. 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, 16 June 2025 — Taxpayers Against Poverty (TAP) welcomes today's report from the All‑Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Poverty and Inequality, which highlights the disproportionate impact of poverty on disabled people. The report reveals stark evidence that disabled individuals are significantly more likely to suffer hardship, including: ·       Almost three times higher rates of material deprivation —34% of disabled people experience food, heating, or clothing shortages, compared with 13% of the non-disabled population ·       41% of disabled people unable to afford to keep their homes warm , versus 23% non-disabled ( disabilityrightsuk.org , appgpovertyinequality.org.uk ) TAP applauds the APPG’s findings that the inadequacy of social security benefits lies at the heart of this crisis. The report warns that current benefit rates are pushing disabled people into deeper poverty, and calls for reforms including: 1.    Uptake of independent assessments  to uprate benefits to actual living needs 2.    Reform of deductions and realignment with objective needs 3.    A new “Essentials Guarantee”  to ensure people have enough to live, not just survive ( disabilityrightsuk.org ) “The health and wealth of a nation is measured not in its success in battle, on the sports field or in GDP growth, but in its level of well-being and the compassion its people show for their fellow citizens,”  said Tom Burgess, CEO Taxpayers Against Poverty. TAP supports the APPG’s call and stresses that action cannot wait any longer. TAP urges policymakers to act on the APPG’s recommendations and to expand them by introducing bold, targeted measures such as: ·       Cancelling council tax for renters , shifting liability onto property owners benefiting from unearned land value gains ·       Raising the income tax threshold to the Real Living Wage , to ensure work truly pays ·       Introducing a tax on extreme wealth , unlocking funds for affordable housing, healthcare, education, and a strengthened social security system “We have the wealth—and the evidence—to build a nation that cares for all its citizens,” Tom Burgess added. “Now is the time for policymakers to step up and act.” TAP invites MPs from all parties to join this urgent call to build a stronger, fairer, and more compassionate UK. For media enquiries, interviews, or comment:  Tom Burgess, CEO, Taxpayers Against PovertyEmail: taxpayersagainstpoverty@gmail.com Website: www.taxpayersagainstpoverty.org.uk   www.realagenda.org   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

Taxpayers Against Poverty (TAP) today welcomed the government’s announcement of increased spending on urgently needed social housing and NHS support  — but warned that poverty and inequality will persist unless the country tackles the systemic issues at the heart of economic injustice. “This is good news — but it doesn’t go far enough,” said Tom Burgess, CEO Taxpayers Against Poverty. “You can’t build a fairer Britain without addressing the root cause: the extreme concentration of wealth and the chronic lack of reinvestment in the real economy.” TAP argues that Britain is not short of money — it’s short of fair distribution . A vast pool of capital is available for investment, but it remains locked in the hands of a few. Without a fair tax on excess wealth , millions will remain trapped in poverty while essential services struggle to keep up with demand. That’s why TAP has launched The Real Agenda Policy Platform  — a bold new programme designed to confront the causes of poverty, not just the symptoms. It includes practical, evidence-based proposals that will directly improve lives and drive inclusive economic growth . The first of these proposals announced last week, is clear and immediate:➡️  Cancel council tax for renters and shift the liability to property owners — the ones benefiting from rising land values and the long-term wealth accumulation it brings. “Council tax is outdated, regressive, and wrongly targets those who don’t own the asset being taxed,” said Tom Burgess. “If we want to support working people, we need to stop taxing them like landlords and start taxing actual property owners. It’s time to rebalance the system.” TAP is calling on the government to match its spending announcements with bold structural reform. Investment is welcome — but unless it is accompanied by fair taxation and inclusive policies , inequality will continue to rise. Notes to editors: The Real Agenda Policy Platform will be released over coming months, including proposals on housing, taxation, welfare, and local government 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’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 PovertyEmail: taxpayersagainstpoverty@gmail.com Website: www.taxpayersagainstpoverty.org.uk    www.realagenda.org

London, 9 June 2025  — Taxpayers Against Poverty (TAP) has launched a major new campaign calling for the abolition of council tax for renters , a move that would relieve financial pressure on over 10 million UK households  and inject fairness into one of the country’s most regressive taxes. Currently, renters—who make up 36% of all households —are required to pay council tax, regardless of income or wealth. TAP argues that this is both unjust and unsustainable and is one way to ease the pain for those below the Poverty Line. “Council tax punishes the poorest in our society,” said Tom Burgess, Executive Director for TAP. “It’s based on outdated property values from 1991 and takes no account of a person’s actual income or ability to pay. Renters, often among the lowest earners, are shouldering a disproportionate burden. That must change.” A Regressive and Broken System Council tax is widely acknowledged as a regressive tax . The poorest 10% of households pay around 7% of their gross income  in council tax—compared to just 1.5% for the richest 10% . Support schemes vary by local authority and often fail to provide adequate relief . The TAP proposal would save the average renting household £1,620 a year , a life-changing boost in disposable income—especially during a cost-of-living crisis. With an average household income of £35,000, this reform would be the equivalent of a 6% tax-free pay rise  for renters and much more than that for lower income families. A Fairer Alternative 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 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. TAP emphasises that homeowners would still benefit  from an updated and fairer system, while renters—many of whom are young families, low earners, and key workers—would finally get a break from an unjust charge. TAP believes that it is pointless taxing people who have no money as it only makes matters worse. TAP wants to ensure that those 14 million people below the Poverty Line are not further burdened with financial stress which reduces the income they have available for basics like food and heating. While we acknowledge that Council Tax support is available for those on low incomes, it needs to be applied for and why take with one hand and give with another. Just abolish council tax for those in poverty. However, this would also require means testing so better just to abolish for all renters for the reasons stated above. TAP supports the Fairer Share campaign which seeks to replace Council Tax and Stamp Duty with a Proportional Property Tax levied on property owners based on the value of their property. TAPs proposal is a measure that could be bring quick relief to those renters who are struggling with the cost of living. Call to Action TAP is calling on MPs, councillors, civil society groups, and members of the public to support this transformative reform. The campaign aims to reshape the national conversation on how we fund local government— with fairness, compassion, and economic justice at its heart . 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 Partner & sister organisation: www.compassioninpolitics.com

“We need vision—not point-scoring. We need leadership grounded in compassion and justice, not another attack.” London, UK — 30 May 2025 Taxpayers Against Poverty (TAP) a leading advocacy organisation tackling inequality and poverty in the UK, has today criticised the government for its lack of vision and failure to deliver meaningful change nearly a year after taking office. The group says the initial hope that accompanied the election of a new administration has given way to widespread disappointment. “When this government came to power, many of us were hopeful,” said Tom Burgess , CEO of TAP. “There was a sense that the nation might finally move toward a fairer, more compassionate society. But a year later, we’re still waiting. We were expecting a new era of mission driven politics, but the mssions appear confused and no one seems to be driving. W e have also failed to see any real strong initiatives that would help resolve the hardship of the 14 million of our fellow citizens in poverty. While there are 100,000 less in poverty, this is minuscule, and even worse, child poverty has increased up to 4.5 million children suffering everyday” TAP says its own decision to step up campaigning efforts was driven by the belief that a new government would be more open to practical ideas to improve life for the millions living in hardship. “Instead of bold direction, we’ve had box-ticking exercises and checklist politics. The country doesn’t need more gimmicks. We need leadership.” TAP warns that the government appears more concerned with managing the rise of opposition parties than setting out a coherent plan for the future. “We need vision—not point-scoring. We need leadership grounded in compassion and justice, not another attack.” TAP is calling for a renewed national focus on the real issues affecting people’s daily lives: ·       Affordable housing ·       Secure, well-paid jobs ·       A fair tax system ·       Universal ease of access to education and healthcare ·       Investment in modern, reliable infrastructure “These aren’t partisan goals—they’re the foundations of a decent society,” said Burgess. “What we’re asking for is simple: the kind of compassionate, just future we all want. The government still has a chance to lead. But the clock is ticking.” 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    www.realagenda.org

London, UK Thursday 29 May 2025 – Taxpayers Against Poverty (TAP), a leading advocacy organisation tackling inequality and poverty in the UK, has today   announced the launch of its new policy platform under the banner The Real Agenda —a clear, focused call to action against poverty and inequality in the UK. The Real Agenda , originally the title of a successful podcast series created by TAP’s Executive Director Tom Burgess, will now serve as the headline name for TAP’s manifesto . The podcast reached thousands of listeners monthly before going on hold over a year ago due to other commitments. While the podcast may return in future, TAP is now absorbing the brand and its values to drive forward a powerful, practical policy message. “The Real Agenda podcast was always about tackling the economic roots of poverty and financial hardship, as that is indeed The Real Agenda,” said Tom Burgess. “Now, it’s more than a podcast—it’s the backbone of a campaign that will propose real answers for the millions struggling in the UK today.” TAP’s new Real Agenda manifesto will be announced in stages starting with this initial three-point agenda: End Council Tax for People in Poverty Raise the Tax-Free Threshold to the Real Living Wage Stop Public Contracts from Funding Poverty Wages More details and a briefing note will follow This is only the start, The Real Agenda will be rolled out through a staged series of public campaigns and policy pushes over the coming months, with support from partners including sister organisation Compassion in Politics. “This isn’t about repositioning—it’s about being clearer, louder, and more focused,” said Tom Burgess “We’ve always been about defending people pushed to the edge. The Real Agenda gives that mission a name—and now, a platform.” 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   Media Contact: Tom Burgess, Executive Director, Taxpayers Against PovertyEmail: taxpayersagainstpoverty@gmail.com Website: www.taxpayersagainstpoverty.org.uk    www.realagenda.org

Sylvie Rouhani Deputy Editor, Taxpayers Against Poverty 21 May 2025 On 25th April 2025, Amnesty UK published a damning report “Social Insecurity”  describing, in details, how subsequent governments have progressively upheld abusive and punishing campaigns against disabled and unemployed UK citizens. It highlights, how the Government is in breach of social security rights. What is Social Security? Amnesty UK describes social security as follow: “ Social security is money and support from the government to protect people who are in need.”  Some of the social security in the UK: Pension, Universal Credit (UC), Personal Independent Payment (PIP), Disability Living Allowance (DLA). 24 million people receive social security payment in the UK. How is the Government in breach of Social Security Rights? Article 25  of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights – 1948 (HDHR). “Everyone has the right to a decent standard of living, including food, clothing, housing, medical care and social services . “ Article 9  of the International Covenant on Economics, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) – 1976, The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR):”  The States Parties to the present Covenant recognize the right of everyone to social security, including social insurance.’   Article 26 , of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child 1989:             1. States Parties shall recognize for every child the right to benefit from social security, including social insurance, and shall take the necessary measures to achieve the full realization of this right in accordance with their national law.          2.The benefits should, where appropriate, be granted, considering the resources and the circumstances of the child and persons having responsibility for the maintenance of the child, as well as any other consideration relevant to an application for benefits made by or on behalf of the child. The UN Committee on Economics, Social and Cultural Rights (CESR) highlights 3 core elements of the right to social security: 1.     Availability : Social security needs to be easily available to manage needs and to support those experiencing sickness, disability or unemployment. 2.     Adequacy : Social security needs to provide enough so all are able to have a good standard of living. 3.     Accessibility: Social security needs to be accessible to all; it needs to be transparent and non – discriminatory. The Government is failing on all account. 1.     Information is complex and confusing. People aren’t always aware of their rights to claim and of their eligibility. There is little to no help to help them through the claiming process. 2.     Benefits have been cut or frozen while inflation has kept soaring, to the point when claimants can’t pay their bills, can’t buy food and can’t live a decent life. When first claiming Universal Credit, many wait for months before receiving their first payment, accumulating rent arrears and pushing them into deeper debts and poverty. 3.     Disabled and the poorest UK citizens are the one suffering the most, under the proposed drastic measures: The Social Insecurity report declares: “Life costs more for disabled people These social security schemes still fail to meet the real needs of disabled individuals. Research by the disability equality organisation Scope found that even with both universal credit and PIP, many disabled people still experience significant financial shortfalls.212 Households with a disabled adult or child face additional costs of over £975 per month, and in some cases, this rises to £1,122 per month when adjusted for inflation.”  It is evident, the UK social security system, at the present, does not maintain dignity and respect for UK Citizens. It erodes them and leaves its most vulnerable people in appalling living conditions that threaten their life itself. With the failure of adhering to Social Security Rights, the UK is also breaching other Rights: the right to life, liberty and security; right to a fulfilling life; right to shelter and more, Austerity, discriminatory campaigns against unemployed, disabled and withholding financial help to those who need it the most, are stripping citizens of their most basic rights. What needs to change? Article 22  of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights reads: “Everyone, as a member of society, has the right to social security and is entitled to realization, through national effort and international co-operation and in accordance with the organization and resources of each State, of the economic, social and cultural rights indispensable for his dignity and the free development of his personality.” The Government needs to create a commission ( a  group  of  people  who have been  formally   chosen  to  discover   information  about a  problem  or  examine  the  reasons  why the  problem   exists )   to make big changes, such as: ·      Amends laws and consult those most affected by proposed laws. ·      Different parts of the government (Department for Work and Pension, Parliament) should work together. ·      Setting a clear plan on how to meet UN’s Human Rights and to check these rights are upheld. ·      Help courts to ensure government follow Human Rights rules. ·       Department for Work and Pension urgently needs to get rid of rules hurting people (limiting the number of children who can get benefits, applying unfair and punitive sanctions to unemployed individuals, conducting demeaning Work Capability Assessments.) and needs to build a safer and more compassionate social security system. ·      Parliament should look at how DWP perform their health checks to social security applicants. It also needs to look at why the government as not examined how its new rules affect human rights.   *   Our Role in Creating Change   Taxpayers Against Poverty believes in social justice, adequate minimum income, affordable housing, and equitable economic policies for all. TAP is campaigning for a fairer wealth distribution for everyone to have the opportunity to build a fulfilling and secure life. It also fights to build a more compassionate society in which the most vulnerable are supported and cared for.   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 May 2025

Sylvie Rouhani Deputy Editor, Taxpayers Against Poverty 3 May 2025 After more than 14 years of austerity aimed at disabled UK citizens, on the 18th March 2025, Rt Hon, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Liz Kendall, confirmed the much dreaded cuts and changes to disability benefits. The Benefit Cuts Include: ·       Personal Independent Payment (PIP) claimants will need to score 4 points, instead of 2 points in at least one category, to be eligible. If they aren’t awarded PIP, claimants will have to look for work. ·       Work Capability Assessment (WCA) will be scrapped which means no more extra financial support for claimants, even those already claiming UC and PIP. ·       “UC Health Element” (Limited Capability of Work Related Activity/ LCWRA) will be frozen until 2029/30 and will be halved (from £97pw to £47pw) for new claimants by 2026. ·       Young adults, under 22 years of age, no 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 gain employment. ·       “Support conversations” instead of WCA. Claimants will be invited to regular appointments for “support conversations” with a trained individual. The focus on what the claimant can do and, on their career goals, with the promise of flexibility in terms of timing, format and frequency. Consultations are ongoing on whether these appointments should be obligatory for individuals receiving the UC Health Element, and if sanctions would need to be applied. Many organisations, such as Taxpayers Against Poverty ( TAP  )and Disabled People Against Cuts (DPAC), are warning those changes will push claimants into further poverty and mental distress. Disabled People Against Cut (DPAC)  explains: “ If the cuts to PIP are taken together with the Government’s proposals to scrap the Work Capability Assessment and replace current out of work disability benefits with a new “health” component of Universal Credit with eligibility tied to PIP, some claimants risk losing £9600 per year.” And “Cutting disability benefits will push more households into poverty. Reports we are hearing say the cuts to be announced will impact a million Disabled people. The charities fear that 700,000 additional households containing a Disabled person will be pushed into poverty as a result of these cuts.”   The Impact of the Benefits Cuts on Claimant’s Mental Health: This news is complex and confusing to understand for many. They also are fear and shame inducing. The tragic deaths of Errol Graham, Jodey Whiting  and David Clapson  are tragic examples of austerity campaigns against ill and disabled people. “I was born with a type of muscular dystrophy/ myopathy,” 45 years old, Borough of Lewisham resident, Sue*, from Lewisham, explains.  “It is a genetic muscle wasting illness. It restricts my movements and my energy levels. My knees and legs get weak,” wobbly” and tired very quickly, so walking is difficult, so is standing, carrying shopping and other daily chores. It affects my arms too: I can’t lift them above my head. I can’t carry lots of shopping bags and small things, such as drying my hair are hard. I walk with a stick as I am prone to falls. There are no cures and no treatments, apart from managing pain, discomfort and exhaustion. My condition has been getting worse for the last 5 years. The WCA for ESA and the PIP reviews are degrading. I have a chronic illness but, still, I need to prove and explain it to assessors I have never met before, and in great details as if I am lying and pretending to be sick. I also have chronic mental health illnesses, but that doesn’t seem to matter.” Sophia* explains the demeaning process of the face-to-face PIP reviews: “It starts in the lobby, waiting to be assessed, as you can feel staff watching your every move. The assessors presented themselves as polite but, I felt like I was talking to robots. There was no sensitivity and real understanding of my conditions.” She adds: “Then they switched to phone assessments and, somehow, it feels wrong to talk to someone I have never met. I get easily confused. The repetitive and hypothetical questions are anxiety inducing. I find it hard to express myself. I can never understand why I have to answer to all these questions when I have already filled in a lengthy PIP assessment form prior the interview. Then I am lucky if I get any points for any categories. The entire processes is soul destroying.” Mike, 50 years old, living in SE London, has been unemployed for 9 years now, as a result of chronic and debilitating mental illness (borderline personality disorder/ BPD), high anxiety and anger management issues, in interpersonal relationships, said: “Since the news of the upcoming cuts, I have been feeling increasingly anxious and suicidal. I f I lose my PIP; I will become homeless. What the Labour Party is planning is demeaning and unjustifiable.” A call for change “Demeaning, humiliating, unjustifiable, soul destroying” With the drastic cuts to the benefit system, thousands of sick and poor UK citizens’ quality of life will further diminish, pushing them into further poverty and making them sicker than they already are. Taxpayers Against Poverty calls for a fairer and more compassionate society, where all are cared for. * 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 3 May 2025

It is is vital that we take urgent action to reduce wealth inequality as it will directly improve the lives of those on lower incomes. One of the myths is that if we tax wealth, the super rich will leave the country and we will all be worse off. That myth is consistency peddled in the media but is in fact myth, this has been explained on the Gary Stevenson, garyseconomics you tube channel and also by other groups include the Patriotic Millionaires UK So we thought we should produce our own TAP Myth Buster summary to help you put the case. Inequality is a crisis – and if you agree with that, you're in the majority. 75% of people in the UK are worried about inequalities of wealth and income. So we need to come together to put the case for taxing wealth not work and make us all better off Why the Wealthy may choose to stay in the UK Recent media coverage about the proposal for a tax on wealth is met by claims that there will be a mass exodus of wealthy people from the UK. At TAP we don’t think that will happen. Dale Vince, the green activist and founder of Ecotricity, the energy company noted that it was 10,000 out of 3,000,000 millionaires that left the country last year - a tiny 0.33% of the total. So if the UK increases taxes on wealth, here are some reasons why many wealthy individuals may choose to stay rather than leave: 1. Strong Cultural and Personal Ties Wealthy individuals often have deep connections to the UK, including family, friends, and cultural roots. Uprooting their lives, especially when they have established communities, homes, and routines, can be emotionally and logistically difficult. 2. Global Prestige of the UK The UK remains a globally prestigious location to live, with access to renowned cultural institutions, historic landmarks, and international influence. For many wealthy individuals, the benefits of being associated with the UK outweigh potential tax increases. 3. Access to World-Class Services The UK offers unparalleled access to high-quality healthcare, private education, and financial services. Relocating may result in a loss of these benefits, particularly in countries with less developed infrastructure. 4. Political and Economic Stability Despite tax changes, the UK is seen as a relatively stable democracy with a predictable legal framework. Many wealthy individuals prioritize this stability over tax advantages in less secure locations. 5. Practical Challenges of Relocation Moving to a new country involves significant costs, including relocating families, managing property sales or acquisitions, and navigating complex legal and tax systems in a new jurisdiction. For some, the potential savings may not justify the effort. 6. International Tax Agreements Many wealthy individuals already have international income streams or assets. Due to double taxation treaties and global tax regulations, relocating may not result in significantly lower taxes overall. 7. Desire for Influence and Legacy Wealthy individuals often seek to maintain influence in the country where they have the most connections. The UK offers a platform for philanthropy, political engagement, and opportunities to shape society, which might not be as accessible elsewhere. 8. Lifestyle and Quality of Life The UK offers an attractive lifestyle, with access to world-class dining, culture, leisure activities, and transportation links to Europe and beyond. For many, these factors are difficult to replicate elsewhere. 9. Reputation and Social Standing Being based in the UK often carries prestige and credibility in the eyes of global peers. Relocating to avoid taxes could damage reputations or lead to perceptions of abandoning social responsibility. 10. Tax Mitigation Strategies Many wealthy individuals can use legal mechanisms, such as trusts, charities, and tax-efficient investments, to reduce their tax liabilities without needing to leave the country. This allows them to remain in the UK while managing their wealth effectively. 11. Other Countries May Not Be as Favourable Other potential destinations for the wealthy—like Monaco or Dubai—may offer lower taxes but lack the social, cultural, and political environment that makes the UK attractive. Countries with lower taxes may also introduce stricter immigration rules or face geopolitical instability. 12. Economic Opportunities in the UK The UK remains a hub for global business and investment opportunities. Many wealthy individuals benefit from its strong financial markets, legal protections, and access to European and international trade, making it advantageous to stay. 13. Commitment to Social Responsibility Some wealthy individuals recognize the importance of contributing to societal well-being through fair taxation. Staying in the UK allows them to maintain their legacy while supporting the country’s social and economic fabric. In summary, while increased wealth taxes may incentivize some to leave, the UK's unique blend of lifestyle, stability, infrastructure, and global reputation provides compelling reasons for many wealthy individuals to remain. 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.   Contact: Tom Burgess, Executive Director, Taxpayers Against PovertyEmail: taxpayersagainstpoverty@gmail.com Website: www.taxpayersagainstpoverty.org.uk

London, UK   8 April 2025 – With the global economy facing fresh turbulence from the tariff wars triggered by the United States , Taxpayers Against Poverty (TAP)  is calling on the UK Government to take immediate, targeted action to shield those in poverty from the harshest consequences of rising prices. “The fallout from global economic conflict will hit low-income households first and hardest,” said Tom Burgess, Executive Director, Taxpayers Against Poverty. “Food, energy, and basic goods are already becoming more expensive — and those barely scraping by are the least able to absorb the shock.” TAP warns that without a compassionate and strategic response, millions more could be pushed into hardship. The organisation is urging policymakers to prioritise poverty reduction  as a matter of national economic resilience. Some of TAP’s Policy Recommendations: Abolish Council Tax for Renters : A blunt and regressive charge on those with the least stability, council tax disproportionately affects low-income renters. Scrapping it would offer immediate relief. Raise the Minimum Wage to a Real Living Wage : In line with the rising cost of living, increasing the minimum wage would empower workers to keep pace with inflation. Guarantee a Minimum Income Standard for Benefits : Ensure that no one receiving benefits falls below a level of income required for basic dignity and security. Stimulate the Economy Through Green Incentives : Invest in sustainable housing, energy efficiency, and public transport to create jobs and reduce costs over the long term. “There are just some of the political choices that can soften the blow and protect those who are already struggling,” the spokesperson continued. “We cannot allow those with the least to pay the price for international brinkmanship.” Funding Fairness TAP also outlines fair and viable funding options  that would avoid further burdening those already struggling financially: Align Capital Gains Tax with Income Tax : A long-overdue reform that would close unjust loopholes and ensure the wealthy pay their fair share. Introduce a Tax on Personal Assets Over £10 Million : A modest levy on extreme wealth could raise billions in revenue — without touching ordinary families. “A just economy is a resilient economy,” TAP concluded. “This is a moment for bold leadership that puts people, not profit, at the centre of policy. We cannot afford more inequality — economically or morally.”

by Sylvie Rouhani Deputy Editor, Taxpayers Against Poverty March 2025 Yes, its damp walls Problem and solutions 6 million people live in Housing Association properties. In the last decade, Housing Associations have been increasingly overstretched. Many social properties have been sold and never replaced. Shelter  explains : “In 2023/24, 20,560 social homes were lost, primarily through Right to Buy sales and demolitions. Meanwhile, 19,910 new social homes were delivered, leading to  a net loss of 650 homes for social rent .” The demands for social housing have increased expositional as the Cost of Living Crisis pushes many into poverty and homelessness. Many housing associations don’t have enough properties to offer.  There is a lack of regulations across the housing association sector.  Financial goals now are taking over providing safe and secure homes for those who can’t access the current housing market, as rents are keep increasing, and, for those who are the most vulnerable. More and social housing tenants are living in poor conditions.   The Better Housing Review  proposes solutions to the various issues Housing Association face, including: ·      All housing Associations need to work together as a sector and to refocus on their initial core values. ·       Housing Associations working with tenants and letting them have an influence on all matters concerning them ·      A national audit system, for better regulations across all housing associations ·      Developing closer relationships with their communities and fostering better multi- agency working.     Sue*’s experience as a social tenant One of many social housing tenants living in poor conditions, is Sue, living in the Southeast London, Borough of Lewisham. She moved in a housing association, Hexagon, property, in 2016. After her first year in the ground floor flat, she noticed some cracks on her bedroom walls. She flagged it up and contractors came in, yearly to keep an eye. As the years went by, the cracks deepened, and more were forming in the entire extension: bathroom and bedrooms were starting to get worse. It took her a few times for someone to take it seriously, at this stage, rainwater was pouring down in her bathtub and a huge hole in the wall in one corner. There are some mould problems too.  In July 2022, she was informed by her then housing officer, that she needed to start packing she will be soon moved into a new property as the current place was deemed unhabitable, due to structural problems. A decanting claim was made, and Sue was accepted and placed on priority Band A. Sue purchased some moving boxing and other necessities, which would be reimbursed by the council. She was never re-imbursed even though she sent the receipts, as advised. She packed all that wasn’t necessary, such as books and ornaments. The boxes have been sitting in her living room floor since 2022. Not wanting to unpack, just in case something comes up and she has to move. In August 2022, she didn’t have any further details or contact with her Neighbourhood Officer. She had a conversation with someone from Hexagon’s Decanting Team, about her needs and the places she wished to be moved in (subject to availability, of course.) She reminded the person, she was suffering with asthma, a muscular dystrophy, severely impacting her movements, so she needed a ground floor flat or a place with a lift.  In October, she sent him an email with pictures of the bathroom ceiling, damaged by water, the hole in the wall, wider than ever. She was told by the Neighbouring Officer; the move will take longer than was expected. She didn’t have much contact with him, afterwards. In 2023, Sue contacted her local MP, Vicki Foxcroft, explaining the situation, who, in turn, contacted Hexagon’s decanting team. An officer contacted Sue to informed her there were no suitable properties. She emailed the decanting office, later in the year, and found out the person she has been speaking to had left. She contacted the new person in charge but, as instructed, she didn’t receive a reply. In 2024, she found a card from a new neighbouring officer, Karen, who she had never had contact with previously. Karen wasn’t aware of the decanting situation, the structural problems, the mould, the cracks, etc. Karen has been good at getting contractors dealing with the mould, the garden and getting a thorough investigation of the problems. However, there is no communication and Sue received phone calls or has contractors vising with no notice. There have been no communications between teams, and, at one point, two teams were doing the same job. Frustrated by the lack of communication from her housing/ neighbouring officer and from the decanting team, Sue approached a local Housing Solicitor. The paralegal she spoke to said she definitely had a case, however there were no solicitors available, at the time. He kindly sent her a list of other solicitors to contact. Unfortunately, none of them were. This year, in February, Janet, from the Decanting Team, informed Sue there was a one bedroom flat for her to visit. Unfortunately, the flat was on the second floor and the building had no lift. It turned out there was no mention of Sue’s Muscular Dystrophy, in her file. She declines to even visit the property.  Fortunately, declining this offer doesn’t mean she has to start the process all over again. Still, it will mean a few more months, if not another year, before a suitable property becomes available. When expressing her astonishment that none of her medical conditions weren’t even mentioned in her decanting file, Karen apologised, adding: “Sometimes, there are communication problems.” It was clear she didn’t want to discuss this further. Although Karen seems proactive, there is no rapport being built. Poor living conditions create poor health Social tenants living in poor condition, experience poor health. Cases such as Awaab Ishak’s story,  a boy who sadly died from mould in his home are tragic and preventable..  The toll on residents’ mental health is also immense, Sue explains: “There has been talk of being moved into temporary accommodation. I have lived in temporary accommodation twice in the past and just the thought of it makes me very anxious. The flat is really cold during winter times. My bathroom is an ice box, and I can’t afford the put the heating on all the time. It is very stressful.” One of TAP’s goals is” Truly Affordable housing” Only when UK citizens have safe and affordable places to call home can they thrive and build fulfilling lives. *All names have been 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 March 2025

Proposed Welfare Cuts Are Unnecessary and Unjust, Say Taxpayers Against Poverty   London, UK   30 March 2025 – Taxpayers Against Poverty (TAP) today condemned proposed government cuts to welfare spending, calling them “harmful, economically short-sighted, and morally indefensible.” “These cuts target the most vulnerable people in our society – families already struggling with rising rents, food insecurity, and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis,” said Tom Burgess Executive Director of Taxpayers Against Poverty. “But the truth is, they are not necessary. There is a fairer and more sustainable alternative such as a modest tax on extreme personal wealth.” TAP is calling for the introduction of a 2% annual tax on personal assets over £10 million , a measure that leading economists say would raise £24 billion in revenue  – more than enough to protect vital welfare programmes and strengthen the social safety net. This would cause no hardship and would affect 0.04% of population that is just 20,000 people “We all contribute to the wealth of this country through the work we do and the society we build, yet this wealth is accumulated by a few. It’s time that contribution was recognised and rewarded more equitably.” This proposal is supported by groups such as Tax Justice UK  and Patriotic Millionaires UK , a network of high-net-worth individuals who advocate for greater taxation of wealth to support public investment and reduce inequality. “The super-rich have benefited from a system that we all uphold. It is only right that they invest back into the country that made their success possible,” added Tom Burgess “There is no economic justification for pushing disabled people, carers, or children deeper into poverty while billionaires accumulate ever more wealth, often untaxed.” Key Facts: There 14 million people living in poverty with 2.5 million children living in food-insecure households.(Source: Joseph Rowntree Foundation ) Public support  for taxing wealth has grown significantly, with 77 per cent - would rather the UK Government increase taxes on the very richest to improve public finances than see cuts to public spending (Source: Oxfam/YouGov) The wealth of all UK billionaires soared by £11 billion last year (Oxfam, Patriotic Millionaires UK, Tax Justice UK), the same amount the UK Government has recently cut from the international aid and social security budgets combined. ·       Polling from Patriotic Millionaires UK shows 65% of UK millionaires  support a 2% tax on assets over £10 million to help fund public services and tackle the cost of living crisis. The groundwork for such a tax is already well-developed; Taxpayers Against Poverty urges the government to abandon the path of austerity and instead build a fairer tax system that serves the common good. “Welfare isn’t waste – it’s the foundation of a decent society. We need investment in people, not punishment of poverty.”