The looters are getting excited about the pressure being put on places hitherto out of the reach of Gordon’s grasping hands – such as Switzerland. It won’t work, even if Switzerland really does cooperate, the deposits will simply be welcomed to the emerging financial centres of the Middle East.

Perhaps the looters would do better to look closer to home at the onshore tax haven that is Buckingham Palace. This is one incredibly wealthy British based family that avoids taxes and scrutiny with the acquiesance of HM Government. The Windsors live in inner London, public sector housing and claim millions in benefits despite being one of the richest families in the world.

They also hide their huge private investment portfolio in a company called Bank of England Nominees Ltd, which is exempted by statute from normal financial reporting requirements. If Gordon really wants to get serious with billionaire tax dodgers, he should start with Her Majesty.

See also www.Republic.org.uk.