It’s official—Rishi Sunak’s wife, Akshata Murty, has been appointed as a trustee for the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A).
Murty, a billionaire heiress and businesswoman, will now play a key role in shaping one of Britain’s most prestigious cultural institutions. However, her appointment is raising eyebrows, given her controversial tax status.
The Non-Dom Controversy
Two years ago, Murty made headlines when it was revealed she had non-domiciled status. This meant she legally avoided paying UK tax on her overseas earnings, reportedly saving her up to £20 million.
At the time, she was earning £11.5 million a year in dividends from an Indian IT company. The revelations sparked a political storm, especially as her husband was Chancellor of the Exchequer at the time.
Now, Labour Chancellor Rachel Reeves has announced plans to phase out non-dom status. However, the revised proposal will offer a more generous transition period, making it easier for wealthy individuals to adjust.
Who Else Made the Cut?
Murty isn’t the only new trustee joining a major cultural institution. The government has appointed 16 people across the V&A, Tate, and British Museum.
British Museum:
- Lord Daniel Finkelstein OBE
- Tom Holland
- Dr Tiffany Jenkins
- Martha Kearney
- Claudia Winkleman
Tate:
- Nick Clarry
- Sir Isaac Julien CBE
- Jack Kirkland
- Tim Richards CBE
- June Sarpong OBE
V&A:
- Mariella Frostrup
- Andrew Keith
- Akshata Murty
- Nigel Newton CBE
- Victoria Nwosu-Hope
- Pedro Pina
Culture Minister Sir Chris Bryant defended the appointments, saying these individuals will help “promote British soft power abroad.”
But with Murty’s past tax arrangements still fresh in the public’s mind, not everyone is convinced she’s the right fit for the job.
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