The marketplace is more self-correcting than we think

8 February 2021
Markets and Morality

The marketplace is more self-correcting than we think

Mark Littlewood writes for The Times

Even the staunchest of free-market enthusiasts tends to accept a need for competition policy, but the marketplace often is more self-correcting than we think, writes IEA Director General Mark Littlewood. In his biweekly column for The Times, Mark argues that while big companies such as Twitter and Google do wield substantial power, very often this ... Continue reading
8 February 2021
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Oxfam’s proposals demonstrate “misunderstanding of economics and poverty relief”

25 January 2021
Markets and Morality

Oxfam’s proposals demonstrate “misunderstanding of economics and poverty relief”

Mark Littlewood comments on "The Inequality Virus" report

Responding to "The Inequality Virus," a new report from Oxfam, Mark Littlewood, Director General at free market think tank the Institute of Economic Affairs, said: “Oxfam is right to highlight the impact the pandemic has had on the world’s poorest. However, the charity’s proposed solutions demonstrate a fundamental misunderstanding of both economics and poverty relief. ... Continue reading
25 January 2021
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A repeated “zig-zag policy of stop, start and then stop” will damage the economy

23 September 2020
Markets and Morality

A repeated “zig-zag policy of stop, start and then stop” will damage the economy

Julian Jessop writes for Times Red Box

"The costs of the first national lockdown soon began to outweigh the benefits. A repeat of this, even by the back door, could be a blow from which both the economy and society would take much longer to recover" says Julian Jessop, IEA Economics Fellow. Writing for Times Red Box, Julian argues "a zig-zag policy ... Continue reading
23 September 2020
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IEA: Oxfam’s obsession with the rich distracts from tackling poverty

20 January 2020
Markets and Morality

IEA: Oxfam’s obsession with the rich distracts from tackling poverty

Commenting on Oxfam’s latest report 'Time to Care', Mark Littlewood, Director General at the Institute of Economic Affairs said: “Oxfam’s obsession with the top one percent once again distracts from the real issue of poverty. “If the charity’s goal is to end world poverty, Oxfam should be making the case for ensuring the right institutional ... Continue reading
20 January 2020
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IEA reacts to the Labour leader’s party conference speech

26 September 2018
Energy and Environment

IEA reacts to the Labour leader’s party conference speech

IEA reacts to Jeremy Corbyn's party conference speech

Spokespeople from the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) respond to the Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn’s party conference speech. On Jeremy Corbyn's speech, IEA Director General Mark Littlewood said: “Jeremy Corbyn is right to highlight that parts of the establishment have far too much control over Britain’s economy. Westminster’s elite should not be picking winners and ... Continue reading
26 September 2018
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Melrose takeover of GKN is a matter for business, not politicians

13 April 2018
Government and Institutions

Melrose takeover of GKN is a matter for business, not politicians

IEA releases briefing on the Melrose takeover of GKN

The recent purchase of GKN has sparked much controversy, with many calling for the Government to intervene by blocking the deal altogether, or at least forcing Melrose to make additional commitments on jobs and divestment plans. But this is not a matter for public policy and further interference would be counter-productive. A new briefing from ... Continue reading
13 April 2018
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Politicians should stop jumping on the anti-finance bandwagon

28 February 2018
Markets and Morality

Politicians should stop jumping on the anti-finance bandwagon

IEA releases report on financial services and the benefits they bring to all

The much-maligned financial services industry is a crucial part of everyday life. Contrary to popular misconceptions, its greatest benefits are felt by the less-well-off and middle classes. The economic function of the financial services industry is to reduce transaction costs for saving, for protecting against major risks, providing for an income in old age, acquiring ... Continue reading
28 February 2018
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The City must avoid complacency & embrace flexibility to prosper post-Brexit

5 February 2018
Markets and Morality

The City must avoid complacency & embrace flexibility to prosper post-Brexit

IEA releases report on The City of London post-Brexit

The City of London is in a strong position to maintain its status as the financial capital of the world. Many of the City’s strengths are deeply embedded and therefore “Brexit-proof”. Plus, it is in pole position to become the centre of global FinTech. Nevertheless, with an increasingly globalised marketplace, steps must be taken to ensure ... Continue reading
5 February 2018
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Heavy handed regulation of ticket resales would be of scant benefit

29 January 2018
Markets and Morality

Heavy handed regulation of ticket resales would be of scant benefit

IEA publishes report on the secondary ticket market

The secondary ticket market is growing and facing calls for limitations on resales and caps on prices. Yet heavy-handed regulation may do more harm than good, and common complaints surrounding high prices - such as lack of transparency or misrepresentation - could be solved by the enforcement of existing laws rather than interference in price ... Continue reading
29 January 2018
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