The Chancellor’s big growth speech on Wednesday morning was so widely trailed that it contained few surprises. But it was still the clearest and most coherent statement of her economic philosophy and plans, so far. Before diving into the detail, it is only fair to welcome the change of tone. It has been refreshing to … Continue reading Can Rachel Reeves get growth back on track?
Tag: Politics
The UK probably should rejoin the Pan-Euro-Mediterranean Convention – but it’s not a big deal either way
First, the short version… In my opinion, the UK should rejoin the Pan-Euro-Mediterranean Convention, which would allow British firms to use components sourced from anywhere within this zone and still qualify for tariff-free trade with other members. This would not be a ‘betrayal of Brexit’, despite what some are claiming. Crucially, the PEM Convention is … Continue reading The UK probably should rejoin the Pan-Euro-Mediterranean Convention – but it’s not a big deal either way
Is there hope for Britain’s economy in 2025?
In the memorable words of one official statistician, Britain’s economy was “going gangbusters” at the beginning of 2024. Unfortunately, last year appears to have ended with a whimper. The best hope now is that this pattern will be reversed in 2025, with a sluggish start giving way to a strong and sustained recovery. But the … Continue reading Is there hope for Britain’s economy in 2025?
Trump’s ‘MAGAnomics’ adds to the downside risks to the UK economy in 2025
On Monday 20 January, Donald Trump will complete a remarkable comeback when he inaugurated as President of the United States for the second time. But the world economy needs to brace for another outbreak of ‘Trumponomics’ or, as the man himself puts it, ‘MAGAnomics’. So far, investors in US equities have responded positively. In part, … Continue reading Trump’s ‘MAGAnomics’ adds to the downside risks to the UK economy in 2025
Plain-speaking Economics 