Sir Keir Starmer has requested the Treasury to meet with a group of retired professional footballers. The group alleges they suffered financial abuse through tax-avoidance schemes and poor investment advice, per The Guardian. Many former players face significant debts following investments in film-tax schemes that were later challenged by HM Revenue and Customs.
Danny Murphy and Craig Bellamy are among those previously affected by such financial issues, according to Sky Sports. The meeting aims to address the long-term impact on the mental health and finances of those involved. The retired players argue they were targeted by advisers who exploited their lack of financial knowledge during their careers.
Government officials will now discuss potential support or regulatory changes with the group. This move follows a sustained campaign by former professionals seeking recognition of their status as victims of mis-selling. The Treasury has not yet confirmed a specific date for the summit, but the prime minister's intervention marks a significant development in the long-running dispute.
