PRESTON MP Mark Hendrick has called for proportional taxing on testimonial matches for footballers serving their clubs for 10 years or more.
This came after Minister for Sport Richard Caborn called for a review of the current tax-free haven enjoyed by the likes of Manchester United's Ryan Giggs.
Lee Cartwright and Ryan Giggs both stepped out for testimonial matches last week but the contrast in their financial rewards for 10 years service was vastly different. Giggs got £1 million tax-free from a 67,000 sell-out at Old Trafford, while North End's Cartwright will be lucky to get a five figure amount form a sparse 4,034 crowd.
Mr Hendrick said: "Any tax should be based on player's earnings. Ryan Giggs can afford to be taxed.
"If there is a case for it, it will be a treasury decision, not a sports minister's decision."
Ian Christon, spokesman for the Football League said: "Testimonials are a way of clubs and supporters rewarding the players. If the clubs are happy, we're happy."
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