I READ the Oxfam report published recently with utter despondency, which reveals eight billionaires own the same wealth as the poorest 50 per cent of the world’s population.

As a country we need to tackle inequality and under Theresa May’s Government, I see little evidence this is happening.

Greens have long established policies on tackling the grotesque inequalities in our society.

We call for a maximum pay ratio of 10:1 between the highest and lowest paid in an organisation; a wealth tax of two per cent a year on the top earners, reform of inheritance tax so it is calculated according to the circumstances of the recipient rather than the donor; and a citizen’s income – a guaranteed, non-means-tested income for everyone which would prevent people falling into the poverty trap.

These redistributive policies can help create not only a fairer society, but also, as is well documented, a happier and healthier one for everyone, both rich and poor.

This report confirms how wealth inequality has soared to an appalling new level, with just eight men amassing the same wealth as a staggering 3.6 billion people.

Globalisation is benefitting an elite few while the overwhelming majority continue to live in insecurity and extreme poverty.

Martin Baxendale

SDC Green Party councillor,

Stroud Valley Ward