Arthur Laffer, economist, former adviser to Ronald Reagan and the architect of the Laffer Curve, goes head-to-head with Aaron Bastani, co-founder of Novara Media and author of Fully Automated Luxury Communism, in the definitive debate over whether the UK should adopt a wealth tax.

Britain’s economy is stymied by stagnant growth, crippling debt and a crumbling public sector. Britons face a daunting reality: house prices have risen tenfold since 1980, consumer prices are up 30 per cent in just three years, debt is hurtling past 100 per cent of GDP and the richest 1 per cent hold almost a quarter of Britain’s wealth.

Many point to a wealth tax as the solution to making the rich pay their fair share. But would it live up to its promise of raising £30 billion to spend on public services and housebuilding? Could it ease the burden on ordinary workers? Or would this policy backfire, with the rich exploiting loopholes and capital rapidly leaving the UK?

Join us on Tuesday 8 September for a debate between Laffer and Bastani to decide whether a wealth tax is the right path for the UK. The evening will be chaired by The Spectator’s economics editor and host of Reality Check, Michael Simmons.

This event is in association with The Jobs Foundation.

Your ticket includes a drink on arrival - a glass of sparkling wine, still wine, beer or premium soft drink.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

In the heart of Westminster lies the all-day British brasserie, Old Queen Street Café. You can enjoy an exclusive Spectator two-course set menu or the à la carte menu, before or after the event. For those dining beforehand, we recommend booking a table at 5.15pm to allow ample time to enjoy your meal before the event begins. If you would prefer to dine afterwards, please reserve a table for 8.45pm. Book your table here and enter SPECTATOR in the special requests box.