Another Magic Wand The latest “big idea” in economics is wealth taxes. The claim: Britain’s collapsing public services and messy finances exist because the rich don’t pay enough, and governments are too timid to act. I’m always suspicious of these kinds of fads. The right had its laffer curves, trickle-down theory and efficient markets. The … Read more
Farage’s Authoritarian Dream Nigel Farage has unveiled another round of “policy announcements” — less a manifesto, more a vision for a whiter, more conformist Britain. Meanwhile, the Government appears asleep at the wheel, or perhaps snoozing on a deckchair. Angela Rayner provokes tabloid paroxysms by vaping in a dinghy or drinking rosé in a dry … Read more
Is an AI Stock Market Crash Coming? For the first time in ages, you didn’t hear this here first. Rumours are swirling about an impending AI stock market crash, and they’ve already reached the pages of The Guardian and the Financial Times. So, what’s going on? The Price-to-Earnings Problem The central issue is the price-to-earnings … Read more
A long time ago, when I was an NHS CEO, a member of staff asked if we could fly the England flag during a football tournament. I liked the idea, and even suggested we make it a tradition whenever England reached the finals over a major tournament we would fly the cross of St George. … Read more
The Decline of Reading for Pleasure The decline of reading for fun is undeniable. In the last 20 years, the number of Americans who read for pleasure has nearly halved. When people do pick up a book, they choose something shorter and simpler. I’m no different—these days I read far more short books than long … Read more
Sunderland AFC, Solar Panels and Reform UK Sunderland AFC’s plan to install solar panels at their training ground should have been a routine attempt to cut emissions and lower energy costs. Instead, it’s sparked fierce objections. Locals are rightly fearful of the club’s plans to steal the power from their Sun God. If their petition fails … Read more
Politicians blur refugees, asylum seekers, immigrants and “illegal” migrants into one debate. The facts tell a different story. Public debate in Britain often collapses refugees, asylum seekers, immigrants and “illegal immigrants” into a single, politically loaded category. The reality is messier. Refugees are already recognised as needing protection. Asylum seekers are waiting for that decision. … Read more
Back in the Premier League — After 3,009 Days Sunderland regeneration and Premier League return is finally a reality — 3,009 days since their last top-flight game. Travel far enough and you’ll find Sunderland fans in bars from Málaga to Malaysia. Not because the club is a global powerhouse like Real Madrid, but because Wearside … Read more
