Tag: cost-benefit analysis

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? →

Why expanding London’s ULEZ is a bad idea

The expansion of the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) to all London boroughs on Tuesday is a triumph of green ideology over sound policymaking. People are right to be fed up. The scheme is at least simple. Motorists driving anywhere in the zone in a car or van which does not meet Euro emission standards … Continue reading Why expanding London’s ULEZ is a bad idea →

Why economists should sit on SAGE

Throughout the pandemic, our politicians have been urged to “follow the science” or, more accurately, the advice provided by medical scientists. Other disciplines play only a bit part. There are Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage) sub-groups assessing the impacts of Covid on the provision of social care, or minority ethnic groups, but what about … Continue reading Why economists should sit on SAGE →