The crisis in politics is about the ineffectiveness of government not lack of growth

The lack of economic growth in Britain and elsewhere is a recurrent theme for those trying to explain public dissatisfaction, and especially the nationalist-right backlash. It is hoped that this backlash can be addressed by finding ways to return to economic growth. This analysis is completely off-point when it comes to the nationalist-right, which is driven by a reaction against pro-growth policies. It is also a diversion away from a shocking lack of effectiveness in government – which will be hard to address.

My latest Substack

Britain’s fiscal plight stems from excessive caution

My latest Substack tries to take a step back from the chatter around the next budget, and look at the fundamentals of fiscal policy, which the current debate muddles. I suggest that a bolder approach to tax reform might present a stronger narrative than the desperate scramble to comply with self-imposed fiscal rules. Perhaps personnel changes at the Treasury and the Prime Minister’s office will aid this?