Tag: inflation

Why the Bank of England was right to raise rates

Many people have been baffled by the Bank of England’s decision to raise interest rates by a historically large three-quarters of a point this week, despite forecasting that the UK economy is sliding into recession. I understand this confusion, but there are three reasons why rates had to be increased. First, the job of the … Continue reading Why the Bank of England was right to raise rates →

Are tax rises inevitable?

If you believe the smoke signals from the Treasury – and you probably should – the Budget on 17 November will have to include big increases in tax in order to plug a ‘black hole’ in the public finances. But is it inevitable that taxes will have to rise and, if so, what’s the best way to … Continue reading Are tax rises inevitable? →

Rishi Sunak offers greater stability, but also more pain

Let’s start with the good news. This change of Prime Minister undoubtedly makes a difference for the better. The Conservatives have finally found a leader with a decent chance of making it until the next General Election, providing some much-needed political stability. The financial markets have reacted positively too: the pound has strengthened, the cost … Continue reading Rishi Sunak offers greater stability, but also more pain →

The case for a real-terms benefit cut is weak – and it would be political madness

The reluctance of both the Chancellor and the Prime Minister to confirm that non-pensioner benefits (notably Universal Credit) will be uprated next year in line with inflation has fed speculation that the Government is considering a real-terms cut. My advice would be to squash this idea as soon as possible – mainly because it is … Continue reading The case for a real-terms benefit cut is weak – and it would be political madness →