In the face of deepening health inequalities and a crisis of underfunding in the UK’s National Health Service, a growing body of experts argues that it is time to revisit the idea of a wealth tax. With over four million children living in relative poverty, and with critical public services strained to the breaking point, this editorial by Professors Kate Pickett and David Taylor-Robinson in The BMJ calls for a bold and equitable solution to restore public health and social wellbeing. The authors propose that taxing the extreme wealth held by the richest individuals could provide the resources needed to reverse some of the most damaging trends in population health.
Drawing on international examples and economic evidence, the editorial examines how a carefully designed wealth tax could generate up to £60 billion annually. This revenue could fund vital services, reduce poverty, and improve early childhood outcomes—ultimately leading to healthier, more resilient communities across the UK.