The top man at HMRC is the focal point of attention today as protestors demand his resignation for his constant tax let offs for big businesses including Vadafone and Goldman Sachs. Around 100 protestors from UK Uncut and Occupy London called for his head today. Police have blocked access to 100 Parliament Street where HMRC is based.
It is beyond belief that Dave Hartnett remains in his position as permanent secretary of tax when he is so clearly representing the interests of powerful corporations above the 99%. Pressure is mounting on Hartnett to leave his job in HMRC but so far he hasn’t been inclined to resign, merely apologising for his “mistake” which resulted in the Wall Street giant, Goldman Sachs, being let off £10 million in tax.
Tax avoidance in the UK has been highlighted by UK Uncut ever since the Vodafone scandal came to light. Through their use of direct action and civil disobedience the message is starting to be heard. If the Chancellor did more to close tax loopholes up to £25 billion could be saved according to Unite. Mr Osborne, we are not ‘in this together’. The road to tax justice begins with the resignation of Dave Hartnett, friend of the 1%.
