Downing Street Insist Businesses Must Pay Their Taxes

The transcript discusses public dissatisfaction with multinational companies like Starbucks over their tax practices. Despite significant UK sales, Starbucks reports no profit and pays minimal tax, leading to controversy. The company has volunteered to pay additional taxes as a goodwill gesture, but critics argue this is insufficient. The situation highlights the challenges faced by smaller competitors and the broader issue of tax fairness.

What was David Cameron's stance on criticizing individual companies regarding their tax practices?

• He was reluctant to criticize them.

• He praised their tax practices.

• He openly criticized them.

• He ignored the issue entirely.

How much corporation tax did Starbucks pay in the UK over the past three years?

• £36 million

• £80 million

• £0

• £20 million

What action did Starbucks take in response to the controversy over its tax payments?

• It increased its UK sales.

• It volunteered to pay £20 million over two years.

• It closed several UK stores.

• It refused to pay any tax.

Why does Starbucks claim its UK coffee shops are lossmaking?

• Because of low sales.

• Because of fees paid to sister companies in lower tax countries.

• Due to high local taxes.

• Due to high employee wages.

What is the suggested approach to deal with companies that don't pay their fair share of taxes?

• Ignore them.

• Name and shame them.

• Provide tax incentives.

• Offer government subsidies.