Incoming Prime Minister Andy Burnham has declined to rule out introducing a wealth tax, suggesting the government may need to ask for more from the super rich to balance Britain's books. In an interview with Gary Lineker for Goalhanger, Burnham said he needed time to assess the public finances before committing to policy changes but argued the UK needs a greater sense of fairness.
Tax on the super rich
When asked about a potential tax rise for the super rich, Burnham stated: 'I'm not going to rule things out right now. I do believe we need a greater sense of fairness and people feeling that things are being done in the right way and a fair way.' He added that he does not want to be perceived as coming in with grudges or agendas that demonise any group or create new divisions.
Burnham acknowledged that difficult decisions lie ahead: 'We are going to have to work quite hard to make sure we can pay our way. And at some point that might be having to ask for a little more. But those decisions are not for now. They're for another day.' He has committed to Labour's fiscal rules but indicated there is room for movement on tax within the manifesto, which rules out raising VAT, income tax, or national insurance.
Transatlantic relations with Trump
Burnham also addressed his approach to US President Donald Trump, who recently described him as 'extremely liberal' and 'mayor of a town'. Burnham promised to be 'very upfront' while respecting the office and the UK-US relationship. He said: 'I'll just meet him where he's at. I like to think I've got some personality myself and I'll deal with him very upfront.' He noted that Trump's comment about Manchester being a town did not go down well in the city he used to represent, but emphasised the importance of being oneself and handling disagreements in a way that meets Trump where he is.
Political reactions
Tory leader Kemi Badenoch criticised Burnham's remarks, warning of a 'summer of chaos' with Labour 'obsessing about who they can tax to pay for more benefits'. She wrote on social media: 'Andy Burnham isn't even prime minister yet but he's already talking about raising your taxes AGAIN. It doesn't matter who is in charge, the problem is the Labour Party.'
Reform UK's Treasury spokesman Robert Jenrick added: 'Burnham has broken his two-week silence in a hard-hitting interview with Gary Lineker. He admits people will have to pay more in tax. But he won't say which ones. He should rule out the 10 taxes – £3,450 for every family – he's previously supported but has no mandate for.'
