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Labour Faces £560 Million U-turn on Private Equity Tax Plans

Oct 5, 2024, 09:02 AM

The Labour Party is facing significant challenges with its tax policies, particularly concerning private equity investors. Initially, Labour proposed closing a loophole that allows private equity investors to avoid paying income tax, aiming to raise £560 million. However, the Treasury has raised concerns that this policy might cost the government hundreds of millions of pounds annually instead of generating revenue. This potential U-turn follows other controversial tax plans, including those on non-domiciled individuals and the two-child benefit cap. Critics argue that these policies are contradictory and could lead to wealthy individuals leaving the UK, further reducing tax revenue. Labour's first 90 days have seen mounting concern over contradictions in their narrative, such as tax rises alongside big public sector pay settlements. Some estimates suggest the tax plan could cost £350 million annually after five years.