many people genuinely do not understand that paying their tax is part and parcel of living in a civilised society

[dikkertjedap]

Or not?

In the Netherlands tax compliance is virtually 100%. Sanctions are extremely harsh if people/businesses do not comply. People moan at the high tax rate in the Netherlands but they also generally understand that it pays for the excellent Dutch infrastructure (roads, rail, telephony, internet, cable TV etc.), generally very good education system (at all levels) and good healthcare system. Basically the majority of people understands why taxes are high and why they have to be paid.

In the UK, people seem to be oh so proud if they find ways around the taxman (legal, illegal or grey), rather than understanding that paying tax is part of living in a civilised society. Not paying will ultimately result in social meltdown. A very divided society, with poor services (unless you can afford to go private), poor infrastructure, etc. - I would argue that the UK is hard on its way to social meltdown thanks to the utter irresponsible behaviour of the better off. Not sure the better off see it that way though?

The reason we have problems is the gap between rich and poor is so vast in this country - perhaps we need to think of ways of reducing this gap?

I'm guessing it's greater than the Dutch?

This article explains how the rich in the UK are taxed until the pips squeak

But all this divide and rule stuff, which the tories are conniving at, is all about distracting the taxpayers from the real issues. Which should be about managing the economy properly and getting some accountability into public finance.