Many commentators like to pontificate about the profits made by big energy companies. But this grandstanding reveals a feeble grasp of basic economics and numbers, and is ultimately counterproductive. In case you missed it, some big companies selling products which are now in short supply have seen their profits rise because of higher prices. This … Continue reading Politicians should work with BP and Shell, not demonise them
Category: 'net zero'
Spring Statement was yet another missed opportunity
The Chancellor’s Spring Statement sent a signal of “steady as she goes”. Unfortunately, what was really needed is a change of course. There was plenty of party political knockabout, but no major policy announcements and nothing to lift the spirits of consumers or businesses. This might have been fine if all were well. But there is little … Continue reading Spring Statement was yet another missed opportunity
Why Labour’s “build, baby, build” mission is struggling to take off
Steve Reed, the newish Secretary of State for Housing, has certainly brought fresh energy to the role. This has even extended to waving MAGA-style caps with Trump-like calls to “build, baby, build!”. But while it is still early days, little has improved on the ground. The construction sector is worth watching closely for at least … Continue reading Why Labour’s “build, baby, build” mission is struggling to take off
Why Rachel Reeves has to increase taxes on motorists
The Daily Telegraph has reported that electric vehicle (EV) drivers will be hit with a new pay-per-mile tax in the Budget. Needless to say, this is not going down well with motorists, especially in rural areas, with some already describing it as a ‘poll tax on wheels’. But the context is important. In my view, pay-per-mile charges … Continue reading Why Rachel Reeves has to increase taxes on motorists
Plain-speaking Economics 