Oxfam welcomes G77 tax fight back

Renewed demands by the G77 for a UN-led body to stamp out tax havens were lauded by Oxfam today.  G77 Ministers, who met on the side-lines of the UN General Assembly in New York, re-launched their proposal for a UN-led tax body, which was blocked at a UN meeting to discuss finance for development in Addis Ababa last year.

Winnie Byanyima, Executive Director of Oxfam International said:

"In the wake of yet another tax haven scandal, this time involving the Bahamas, the G77 is sending a clear message that the current G20-led process for tackling tax dodgers is failing poor countries.  Developing countries have been effectively locked out of decision-making on global tax reforms and have seen few benefits as a result.  I am delighted to see that the G77 are fighting for their right to be heard and are calling for tax reforms that benefit all people.

"Tax havens cost poor countries an estimated US$170 billion each year.  A strong and united G77 led by Ecuador could help shut them down for good."