David Cameron today claimed he was “very relaxed” about publishing his tax return - but Downing Street refused to say when, if ever, the public would see his finances laid bare.
The Prime Minister said he was “paid handsomely” by the taxpayer and admitted to earning rental income on his former home in West London.
But although he denied having any “secrets” to hide, No 10 seemed to be intent on ensuring his annual declaration to the Inland Revenue remains under lock and key.
Mr Cameron suggested in 2012 he might copy Boris Johnson’s example of revealing his tax affairs. When asked today in public if he would do so, he replied: “Nothing has changed - I’m very relaxed about publishing these things. There’s no secrets about my status.”
However, Mr Cameron’s official spokesman muddied the waters by claiming any decision to publish would have to await the “consideration” by civil servants in the Cabinet Office of issues raised, such as whether it would conflict with the confidentiality of tax affairs enjoyed by UK citizens.
“It needs the consideration it is being given,” claimed the spokesman. Asked when this had started and when it might be completed, the spokesman said he did not answer questions of “processology”.
