The so-called ‘cuts’ have dominated the political agenda since the coalition government was formed in May. In totality, the cuts … Continue reading “The real debate – “laissez faire” versus “hands-on” government”

In these grim dark days of austerity and cuts, the coalition urgently needs to find a compelling political narrative of … Continue reading “Finding a narrative of hope”

Our over-excitable media are again whipping up concern about a wave of public sector union militancy in the wake of … Continue reading “No fighting on the streets just yet”

A fascinating fact about defence budgets is that no matter what the changes in the strategic situation the proportion of … Continue reading “Defence policy is not the product of rational decision-making”

Earlier this year I published a report estimating British government debt at £4.8 trillion . However, over the summer the Office for National … Continue reading “It’s official – the British government owes trillions”

The Liberal-Conservative administration deserves to pass its 100 day probation. It hasn’t done much yet, but it has said some … Continue reading “A solid enough start”

Sombre sound bites about the scale of the deficit, the need for deep cuts and the opportunity to use this … Continue reading “The coalition’s first 100 days: is Britain freer?”

A single claimant of Jobseeker’s Allowance or Income Support aged 18-24 receives £51.85 a week. This goes up to £65.45 … Continue reading “Fairness in benefits could save billions”

Not all cuts spell pain. The traffic control industry is ripe for reform that could bring massive savings as well … Continue reading “No need to raise VAT – there is a source of cuts to dent the deficit and benefit us all”