Robert Watts, a journalist at The Sunday Times and compiler of the annual Tax List, discusses the intriguing world of Britain’s top taxpayers. He reveals a surprising mix of sectors fueling the economy, from gambling families to culture icons. Explore the dark side of wealth disparities and the complexities of tax contributions. Watts delves into the impact of new inheritance tax changes on family businesses, and shares inspiring stories of self-made entrepreneurs transforming modest ventures into global successes.
The 2025 Sunday Times Tax List highlights a significant contribution from the gambling industry, revealing its financial power and societal implications.
Unexpected profitability from asylum sector businesses showcases the evolving landscape of economic contributions amid changing societal needs in the UK.
Deep dives
Introduction of the Sunday Times Tax List
The Sunday Times tax list is an annual rundown that highlights the top taxpayers in the UK, revealing insights into economic trends and individual tax contributions. Sir Chris Hone, a hedge fund manager, tops this year’s list, marking a shift in awareness towards wealthy individuals and their tax responsibilities. The compilation involves analyzing company filings, salary disclosures, and other public financial documents, with many contributors voluntarily sharing their tax payments to gain recognition. This year, 15 individuals paid over £100 million in taxes, indicating a substantial contribution from certain wealthy entrepreneurs.
Evolving Tax Contributions from Various Industries
A notable discovery from this year’s tax list is the dominance of the gambling industry, which saw Denise Coates, founder of Bet365, continue to contribute significantly despite a reduced salary. The gambling sector has consistently topped the list due to various taxation levies, with Coates’ family collectively contributing £265 million in taxes this year. Alongside them, the Dunn brothers of Betfred also emerged as key contributors, reflecting the growing financial power of the betting industry. This highlights the dual nature of gambling as both a lucrative sector for some and a source of concern regarding its societal impacts.
Unconventional Tax Contributors: Asylum Sector and Family Businesses
This year’s list also includes unexpected entries from the asylum sector, with businesses like Clear Springs and Britannia Hotels profiting from government contracts to house asylum seekers. Graham King's Clear Springs reported an impressive £120 million profit, primarily benefitting from the increased demand for accommodation services. Additionally, family businesses specializing in various sectors, such as pillow manufacturing, have shown resilience, despite potential changes to inheritance tax laws that could impact their future viability. These profiles reveal an eclectic mix within the economy, blending traditional industries with evolving societal needs, influencing the overall landscape of tax contributions.