Interview (almost imaginary) with Jean-Claude Juncker (PM of Luxembourg)
• Jean-Claude, are you abandoning banking secrecy?
Uh, not right away. Hey, we'll wait for the Swiss, the Andorrans and other European liliputs to give their agreement.
• That is to say ?
Oh that gives us a little time. We lasted 24 years before saying that one day maybe we would lift our secret. We can still wait ten years. No ?
• Yes, but States need money?
Not us. Everything is fine. No deficit. Reduced taxation on investments. Strong banks. Come and you'll see…
• Are there pressures?
There are rather quitters and hypocrites. The Belgians, who had banking secrecy, camouflaged it. The English keep a pear for thirst with Jersey and Guernsey. And the Dutch hide their trusts. I have the list. I can swing if you want...
• One last word ?
Oh rather a call. (Tax) asylum seekers from all countries unite!