The G8 summit is an important political opportunity to tackle tax haven tax evaders, but once again, Canada threatens to be a disruptor.
British Prime Minister Cameron wants G8 leaders to adopt a strong action plan to tackle tax havens when they meet in Northern Ireland next week.
But Stephen Harper could block a deal unless we mobilize public opinion to exert strong pressure.
We have received reports from reliable sources indicating that Canada still does not support two key elements of the G8 Action Plan Against Tax Havens: that financial institutions in tax havens be required to have a public registry of the ultimate beneficial owner of all accounts, trusts or corporations and that there be multilateral automatic sharing of tax information between governments. Both of these measures are essential to lift the veil of secrecy that allows tax evaders and criminals to hide their wealth abroad.
The G8 summit is due to take place on 17 and 18 June. Negotiations to reach an agreement on several keys are still ongoing, as the deadline approaches. It is urgent that you now send a message to Prime Minister Harper in support of the aggressive action plan on tax havens proposed by his friend, Prime Minister Cameron of Great Britain.