American Structural Engineer Detained at London Airport Over £2.1 Million UK Pension Tax Dispute

London, UK – A U.S. citizen and professional structural engineer, James L. Weeks, remains in custody at a London airport after authorities allegedly halted the transfer of his fully approved £2,100,365 private UK pension due to a withholding tax requirement for non-UK residents. According to sources familiar with the matter, the UK’s HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has imposed a 10% withholding tax (£210,036.50) on the pension payout because Mr. Weeks is not a UK tax resident. The pension, accumulated during previous employment in the United Kingdom, had reportedly been cleared for immediate transfer to his U.S. bank account prior to the intervention. HMRC sources state that the 10% tax is standard procedure for non-residents under UK law, but is fully refundable within 4–5 working days after submission and approval of Form R43 (Claim for repayment of UK tax by non-UK residents). The refund process has reportedly been fast-tracked in this case under a little-known bilateral arrangement designed to assist overseas nationals and avoid upfront hardship. The case has attracted international attention, with diplomatic channels between the United States and United Kingdom said to be actively engaged to resolve the situation swiftly. A U.S. Embassy spokesperson in London confirmed they are “providing consular assistance to an American citizen detained at a UK airport” but declined to comment further, citing privacy concerns. They emphasize that the pension release and tax refund have already been pre-approved by both the pension trustee and HMRC. As of Wednesday evening, negotiations are still ongoing concerning the $5,920 surety payment required for Mr. Weeks' release. Upon confirmation of compliance, a prompt refund of £210,036.50 will be processed and transferred to Mr. Weeks’ designated U.S. account.

Last updated: December 4, 2025 11:47 am

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