A review of news over the past seven days, including thoughts on Burnham’s ambitions for a National Care Service and the case for a small increase in interest rates (“a stitch in time...?). Theme of the week Some first thoughts on Andy Burnham’s ambitions for a National Care Service (NCS)... There are four key questions. … Continue reading Weekly wrap – Is the NHS really a good model for social care?
Category: Labour markets
Bank of England edges closer to an autumn hike
A small rate rise soon could be preferable to larger increases later - a case of “a stitch in time saves nine”. However, subdued money growth and strong competition should help keep inflation down. The Bank of England’s MPC left UK interest rates at 3.75% today, as expected, but the 6-3 split was more hawkish. … Continue reading Bank of England edges closer to an autumn hike
Another lurch to the left under Burnham could tip the economy over
Better news on inflation might lower bond yields regardless of the changes in Downing Street. But it seems more likely that honeymoon disappointment and Budget speculation will sap confidence further. This Friday, Andy Burnham is set to be confirmed as the new leader of the Labour Party and hence as the next Prime Minister of … Continue reading Another lurch to the left under Burnham could tip the economy over
The Bank is unlikely to raise rates this week, but maybe it should?
There are three good reasons to expect the Bank of England’s MPC to “wait and see” for at least another month. Nonetheless, there may be one even better reason to pull the trigger now - "credibility". A Reuters poll of sixty-five economists last week found that all sixty-five expect the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee to … Continue reading The Bank is unlikely to raise rates this week, but maybe it should?
Plain-speaking Economics 