Some have lost up to £6billion since last year, according to the Sunday Times Rich List.

⚠️ Read our coronavirus live blog for the latest news & updates

The combined wealth of the UK’s 1,000 richest people has plummeted for the first time since the 2009 crisis.

At least 63 have used the Government’s taxpayer-funded furlough scheme for staff.

They include Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who co-owns The Pig hotel chain and is worth £12billion, and the Primark-owning Weston family — worth £10.5billion.

But vacuum cleaner tycoon Sir James Dyson topped the list for the first time after his wealth grew by £3.6billion to £16billion.

There were a record 25 female billionaires on this year's list.

List compiler Robert Watts said: “Ever since the financial crisis of 2008-9, Britain's wealthiest people have become richer and richer.

“Covid-19 has called time on their golden period. This year’s rich list paints a picture of Britain on the brink of calamity – two months after lockdown and already billions of pounds have been wiped out.

“You may not like the super-rich, but it is hard to deny that our economy will need the jobs they create and the taxes they and their companies pay if we are to escape a prolonged recession that causes further misery to millions.”

CORONAVIRUS CRISIS – STAY IN THE KNOW

Don't miss the latest news and figures – and essential advice for you and your family.

To receive The Sun's Coronavirus newsletter in your inbox every tea time, sign up here.
To follow us on Facebook, simply 'Like' our Coronavirus page.
Get Britain's best-selling newspaper delivered to your smartphone or tablet each day – find out more.

Source: Read Full Article