It is obviously a bit harsh to judge anyone’s premiership by just one announcement on the first day, but a token cut in VAT on domestic electricity bills does not bode well. In case you missed it, the new government has announced that the rate of VAT charged on domestic electricity bills will be cut … Continue reading Burnham’s first big idea: lower your bills by raising your taxes?
Weekly wrap: don’t forget the US-Iran war…
The spotlight is on Andy Burnham, but the immediate prospects both for UK markets and for the economy may depend more on events in the Middle East than in Westminster for quite a while yet. Welcome to the latest summary of news that caught my eye over the past seven days. Theme of the week … Continue reading Weekly wrap: don’t forget the US-Iran war…
Should there be an extra Bank Holiday if England win the World Cup?
In my unpopular view, the social benefits of an extra Bank Holiday are overstated, while the economic costs would be too high. But political realities suggest we’ll get one anyway, if the football gods allow! An extra Bank Holiday would obviously be popular, and few politicians would be able to resist. Indeed, Keir Starmer has … Continue reading Should there be an extra Bank Holiday if England win the World Cup?
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
Plain-speaking Economics 