There seems to be widespread agreement within the political class that the British economy is in need of ‘rebalancing’ following … Continue reading “A different kind of industrial policy”

As the festive season approaches, it’s time for economists’ annual disquisition on the efficiency of gift-giving. This tradition was inaugurated, … Continue reading “The economics of Christmas: the true value of Christmas presents”

At a time of increasing suspicion of, and animosity towards, experts – meaning people in public office with a great … Continue reading “In defence of central bank independence”

The taxi trade is subject to licensing everywhere in the developed world. In the most liberal markets, however, licensing only … Continue reading “The effects of quantity restrictions in the taxi market”

In September 2015, Transport for London released a consultation document which proposed various new regulations for private passenger transport operators. … Continue reading “Black cabs, Uber and the sharing economy: the case for private regulation”

Jeremy Warner yesterday echoed the Prime Minister’s goal of a “proper industrial strategy” for Britain. He rightly cautions against the … Continue reading “Does Britain need a ‘proper industrial strategy’?”

“Corporations do not pay taxes.” This statement may be uncontroversial among large swathes of the population, but to free-marketeers – … Continue reading “It is true that “corporations don’t pay tax” – but it is not true in the way everybody thinks”

This article is based on a presentation delivered at the Restructuring of the Global Economy (ROGE) conference, Oxford University. It is … Continue reading “Public opinion is turning against free trade and globalisation”

An article from the IMF’s magazine, entitled ‘Neoliberalism: Oversold?’, has been making the rounds on social media. This is not … Continue reading “The IMF gets it wrong on ‘neoliberalism’”