When it comes to paying taxes, most people probably don’t think of billionaires leading the way.
But Sir Chris Hohn, a Surrey-born hedge fund manager, is breaking that stereotype.
Starting out as the son of a Jamaican immigrant, Hohn’s journey to success has been nothing short of inspiring.
After graduating from Harvard University in 1993, he worked in the City of London before founding his hedge fund in 2003.
Fast forward to today, and Hohn has made headlines as Britain’s top taxpayer, contributing a jaw-dropping £340 million in just the past year.
Over the last five years, his total tax payments have exceeded £930 million—an achievement that puts him in a league of his own.
Big Players Making Big Contributions
Hohn isn’t the only one writing hefty checks to the Treasury.
The latest Sunday Times Tax List highlights some of Britain’s top contributors, revealing a diverse mix of industries.
In second place are Fred and Peter Done, the founders of Betfred, with a combined tax bill of £273 million.
Hot on their heels is Denise Coates, the CEO of Bet365, who paid £265 million.
Collectively, the top 100 taxpayers contributed a staggering £4.98 billion, with each person paying at least £10.5 million.
However, not everyone on the list feels appreciated for their efforts.
Wetherspoons boss Sir Tim Martin, who paid £170 million, issued a warning to the Treasury, saying, “Overwhelming pubs and restaurants with taxes and regulations risks hobbling the golden goose.
None of this can happen without profits.”
Celebrities and Newcomers on the List
Pop sensation Ed Sheeran is the youngest on the list at just 33, despite a quieter year cutting his tax bill to £19.9 million.
Meanwhile, the oldest contributor, 86-year-old Alex Langsam of Britannia Hotels, saw his fortunes boosted by government contracts to house asylum seekers.
Writer J.K. Rowling also made the top 30, paying £47 million thanks to the ongoing success of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.
Even Queen, the legendary rock band, joined the ranks after earning £40 million in royalties through their company, Queen Productions.
New faces included controversial energy boss Dale Vince, who landed at number 81 with a £14.3 million tax contribution.
Meanwhile, Alex Gerko, a Moscow-born mathematician turned financial trader, slipped from first to sixth place after his tax payments dropped to £202 million.
Despite the decline, Gerko remains vocal about his opposition to Russia’s actions in Ukraine and even renounced his Russian citizenship in 2022.
Industries Driving the Numbers
While the list features a mix of new and old money, property barons like Earl Cadogan and the Duke of Westminster continue to maintain their stronghold.
Retailers also made a significant impact, with Sports Direct founder Sir Mike Ashley leading the pack by paying £198 million.
Lesser-known family businesses, like Home Bargains, contributed handsomely too, with owner Tom Morris paying £149 million.
Interestingly, construction proved to be the most represented sector, with 11 entries on the list.
The housing shortage and resilient property prices have clearly kept builders busy—and paying taxes.
Warning Signs for the Future
Despite the impressive contributions, there’s growing concern about the future.
The total tax take from the top 100 has fallen for a second consecutive year.
Critics, including the Taxpayers Alliance, are warning that proposed changes to inheritance tax could backfire.
Vacuum innovator Sir James Dyson, who paid £103 million, has been particularly vocal about the risks.
He believes that capping business property relief could harm homegrown family businesses.
Echoing his concerns, Taxpayers Alliance chief executive John O’Connell warned that higher taxes might stifle growth, forcing businesses to cut jobs or sell assets—ultimately shrinking tax contributions.
Hats Off to Britain’s Biggest Contributors
Despite the challenges, the individuals on this list deserve recognition for their remarkable contributions to Britain’s economy.
As John O’Connell puts it, “Those outside the political bubble understand the dedication and sacrifice it takes to make this list.
They’ll be tipping their hats to those not just contributing significantly to the Treasury but also powering our wider economy.”
It’s a reminder that behind the numbers are real people driving change, creating jobs, and keeping the economy moving—one tax payment at a time.
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