A broad coalition has formed in support of a financial transactions tax (see previous EG4H blog). Following the English legend, they are styling the tax as a ‘Robin Hood tax’ – robbing the rich to give to the poor. The campaign is centred on a video with Bill Nighy directed by Richard Curtis and is sure to reach a broad audience and get huge profile for the cause.

The campaign is a clear signal that a financial transactions tax or ‘tobin tax’ is now firmly on the political agenda. Until recently it was no more than a dream in the eyes of a few. Overnight, it is being discussed openly in the media, seeing the support of Europe’s leaders (Brown, Sarkozy, Merkel) as well intellectual heavyweights like Nobel Laureate Prof. Joseph Stiglitz and 350 other leading economists. There is reason for genuine optimism amongst activists that a progressive tax such as this could be implemented.

There are still major obstacles, not least the continuing opposition of the US Government, but many are confident of an agreement in the future. Popular support and pressure will certainly increase those changes and we encourage you to sign the online petition at robinhoodtax.org. UK-based supporters can sign the Avaaz petition. UK-based medical advocates can email their MP with just 2-clicks via Health Unlimited. Those of you with a Facebook account can join the 100 000+ Facebook fans.