Speaking to the Telegraph in his first interview since the bid was announced, the chancellor accused his critics of using “dirty tricks” to undermine his campaign. He said his wife had never had an offshore tax status and denied being contacted by the IRS as part of an investigation. The Chancellor also called on his leadership rivals to sign a “clean campaign” pledge, promising to take each other to task on policy rather than second guesses. The position of pledging to publish its returns if it reaches the final stage of the race will pile pressure on Rishi Sunak, whose tax arrangements hit the headlines earlier in the year. Sajid Javid, the former health secretary who is also running, also called on candidates to open up their tax files, saying he had “no problem” with transparency of tax returns. Mr Zahawi told The Telegraph: “They are confusing me everywhere. Whether it’s the Serious Fraud Office or the National Crime Agency. I haven’t heard them. I declare my finances normally, I pay my taxes in the UK. And of course, if HMRC [HM Revenue & Customs] have any questions, I’m more than happy to answer any questions.”
