Many diehard Remainers are still claiming that UK exports to the EU have been permanently crippled by Brexit, and that UK imports will fall further. But the evidence is stacking up against them. Admittedly, the widely expected decision to delay the full introduction of UK border checks might suggest that there is worse to come. The Government … Continue reading What’s the real story on UK-EU trade?
Stronger economy should save us from further tax rises
The Treasury is keeping busy, but hopefully not too busy. On the same day as the Prime Minister unveiled the ‘health and social care levy’, the Chancellor revealed last week that we will only have to wait another 50 days for the Autumn Budget, due on October 27. The focus next month will probably be on … Continue reading Stronger economy should save us from further tax rises
How to solve a problem like the ‘triple lock’
Few subjects are as touchy as the annual increase in the state pension. My own view is that it would be right to tweak the ‘triple lock’ this year, but wrong to scrap it completely - at least until we have come up with something better. Just in case you have been on the Moon, … Continue reading How to solve a problem like the ‘triple lock’
The EU’s vaccine failures will leave a toxic legacy
This week it has been reported that the pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca is ‘exploring options’ for its COVID-19 vaccine business, including a sale. This is not entirely surprising. The company has not traditionally focused on vaccines and its vital contribution to the fight against the coronavirus may never make a profit. However, AstraZeneca’s experience still reflects … Continue reading The EU’s vaccine failures will leave a toxic legacy
Plain-speaking Economics 