The letter sets out the steps we'd like to see the UK and Scottish Governments take.
Read the full letter below.
It’s no surprise many Scots don’t want to pay more tax right now. Many families are already running up a down escalator: their incomes squeezed by rising bills.
But let’s not forget that tax funds the things we all rely on: schools, hospitals, care, housing, and green public transport. Calling it a ‘burden’ feels wrong.
If Scotland is serious about tackling poverty, climate change, the social care crisis, and other key challenges, the real question isn’t whether tax should rise, but who should pay more.
Over time, many of us may have to do so but currently the richest 2% in Scotland hold more wealth than the poorest half combined. That gap isn’t only unjust, it’s unsustainable.
Next month, the UK Chancellor can help rebalance a system tilted towards the wealthiest. Fairer UK taxes on wealth could raise up to £60 billion more a year.
Here, Scotland’s slightly more progressive Income Tax already means lower earners pay less while higher earners contribute more, raising crucial extra funds for public services.
The First Minister has restated there will be no Income Tax changes before the Scottish Election, but manifesto promises without pounds to back them up won’t be credible.
Beyond taxing income from work, better taxing wealth – including property – and pollution is essential. All parties must produce detailed plans to replace Council Tax and commit to fairly taxing the super-polluting private jets clogging Scottish skies.
Fairer taxes won’t solve every problem, but they can help deliver lasting change for everyone.
Jamie Livingstone,
Oxfam Scotland
This letter originally appeared in The Scotsman.
