The JustMoney Movement has called on the Government to use the upcoming Autumn Statement to boldly step up to tackle rising poverty and inequality in our local communities, through reform of the tax system.
Around 14.4 million people were living in poverty in 2021/22, including 4.2 million children[1]. It is widely accepted that this has increased due to the cost-of-living crisis. A new report from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation found that around 3.8 million people in the UK experienced ‘horrifying levels of destitution’ last year[2]. Statistics such as these are terrible in any context, but in the world’s 6th largest economy, they are completely unacceptable and immoral.
The JustMoney Movement is calling for measures to tackle the poverty crisis to be placed front and centre in the Autumn Statement, including reforms to shift taxes from income to wealth. Currently our tax system puts the onus on those least able to pay, while the super-rich are taxed proportionately less.
The JustMoney Movement wants to see the Government commit to a Wealth Tax on the very richest; reforms to existing taxes; and the closing of tax loopholes. All of these could raise billions in revenue to ensure everyone has at least enough to pay for essentials like food, warmth and housing. The solutions are plenty and would help address the scandal of poverty and destitution in 21st century Britain.
Former Archbishop of Canterbury, Rowan Williams said:
“We in the UK are witnessing – and, sadly, tolerating – levels of inequality and insecurity not seen in this country for decades. It is often said that justice deferred is justice denied. We urge the UK Government not to defer tackling this crisis and to use the means at its disposal – including reform of our tax system to tax wealth more fairly – to offer some hope and freedom of agency to those most at risk in our society.”
JustMoney Movement Executive Director, Sarah Edwards said:
“Despite the political uncertainty of recent times, there can be no uncertainty about Britain’s poverty problem and the need for politicians to step up and act in the interest of the poorest and most vulnerable in our society. In modern society, taxes are a way that we can love our neighbours and show care to those in need.
Our taxes help provide a safety net to stop people falling into poverty and destitution. But too many people in this country are falling through the gaps. We call on the Government to use this Autumn Statement to tackle poverty by reforming our tax system now, so that we can create a society where everyone can flourish.”