Gary Lineker among millionaires urging PM Burnham to tax them more

Gary Lineker, the former England footballer and BBC presenter, has joined more than 100 UK millionaires in signing an open letter to new Prime Minister Andy Burnham, calling for a wealth tax on the richest individuals to fund public services. The letter, organized by Patriotic Millionaires UK, argues that the wealthy should pay more to tackle inequality and support the NHS, education, and social care.

According to the BBC, the signatories include entrepreneurs, investors, and celebrities, all pledging to pay more tax if the government implements a wealth tax. Al Jazeera reports that the letter was sent to Burnham shortly after his landslide election victory, urging him to 'tax us more' to create a fairer society. Sky News has also covered the story, featuring a debate on wealth tax with one of the signatories.

The campaign comes as Burnham's Labour government sets its economic agenda. The letter states that 'the cards don't have to be stacked that way' and that the wealthy can afford to contribute more. The timing is significant as the government faces pressure to address public service funding gaps without burdening the working class.

The debate over wealth tax is likely to intensify, with critics arguing it could drive capital away, while supporters point to successful models in other countries. The involvement of high-profile figures like Lineker amplifies the message, but the government has not yet responded to the specific proposal.