According to a poll conducted by the Taxpayer's Alliance, one in five of those surveyed would leave the UK because they are annoyed with the lack of tax cuts from the government. The Sunday Times article also writes that those surveyed are disillusioned with the political parties, and this has also come through during some of the research for the project.
But during our focus groups it was also clear that the story was less about leaving the UK to escape high tax (which is moderate compared to other countries in Europe). As Max Hastings argues in his piece in the Guardian, there has to be an attractive 'pull' factor that is specific to the destination.
Interesting questions do arise about political apathy and representation. Do people take up their right to vote for UK parties abroad? Do they even vote in local elections of their new country of residence? From our work, it appears that the answer is often 'no'. What more could/should be done to prevent 'an unacceptable further erosion of democracy and human rights' as Jeremy Millard puts it in his comment?
Unfortunately too high taxes (or perceived to be too high taxes) and disillusionment with political parties won't really go away by moving to another country. It might actually get worse, depending on where you go.
I think Max Hastings got it about right with his analysis, there are are others (and I believe much more important) factors to consider. If the only reason is tax and political parties you'll probably be back very quick.
On the topic of political apathy and representation I've written on my own blog last year:
http://www.ministryofpropaganda.co.uk/2005propaganda/20050408-voting.shtml
Posted by: Armin | August 29, 2006 at 02:18 PM