The short answer
The 'patriotic millionaires' movement involves wealthy individuals advocating for higher taxes on themselves to address inequality and fund public services. In the UK, figures like Gary Lineker have publicly urged Labour mayor Andy Burnham to back a wealth tax on the super-rich, which could raise £10bn a year. The term 'patriotic millionaires' has been used globally by similar groups, such as in the US, to frame tax increases as a civic duty. The debate centers on whether such taxes are economically viable and politically feasible.Why it’s trending
The trend spiked after Gary Lineker publicly urged Andy Burnham to tax millionaires more, as reported by The Telegraph on July 23, 2026. This followed a Guardian report on July 21 that a wealth tax could raise £10bn annually. The combination of a celebrity advocate and a concrete policy proposal drove sudden interest.
Gary Lineker, the former England footballer and BBC presenter, has publicly urged Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham to support higher taxes on millionaires, framing it as a patriotic duty. The call comes amid a broader campaign by 'patriotic millionaires' advocating for wealth taxes to reduce inequality and fund public services. According to The Telegraph, Lineker said, 'Tax millionaires like me more,' directly appealing to Burnham, who has been consulting on tax reforms.
The Guardian reported on July 21 that a wealth tax on the UK's super-rich could raise £10bn a year, based on analysis presented to Burnham. The proposal targets individuals with assets over £10m, with a 1% annual levy. However, critics argue such taxes could drive wealth abroad and harm investment. Sky News, meanwhile, covered Burnham's separate move to slash business rates on pubs and clubs by 20%, highlighting his focus on local economic relief.
The 'patriotic millionaires' concept originated in the US with groups like 'Patriotic Millionaires' advocating for higher taxes on the wealthy. In the UK, the campaign has gained traction amid debates over austerity and public spending. Burnham, a potential future Labour leader, has not endorsed the wealth tax but is exploring options. The timeline shows a coordinated push: the Guardian report on July 21, followed by Lineker's public plea on July 23.
The broader implications involve Labour's economic strategy and public opinion on taxing the rich. While polls show support for wealth taxes, implementation challenges remain. The campaign could influence Labour policy ahead of the next general election. Watch for Burnham's response and whether other wealthy figures join the call.
Timeline
- Wealth tax proposal presented to Burnham
The Guardian reports that a wealth tax on the UK's super-rich could raise £10bn a year, based on analysis shared with Andy Burnham.
- Lineker urges Burnham to tax millionaires
Gary Lineker publicly calls on Andy Burnham to support higher taxes on millionaires, as reported by The Telegraph.
- Burnham cuts business rates
Sky News reports Andy Burnham slashes business rates on pubs and clubs by 20%, a separate policy move.
Questions people ask
What is a 'patriotic millionaire'?
A 'patriotic millionaire' is a wealthy individual who advocates for higher taxes on themselves and other rich people, arguing it's a civic duty to contribute more to society. The term is used by groups like 'Patriotic Millionaires' in the US and UK.
How much could a UK wealth tax raise?
According to analysis reported by The Guardian, a 1% annual wealth tax on individuals with assets over £10m could raise £10bn a year.
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