Prudence with an electoral purpose
Article Abstract:
The British Mar 2000 Budget appears to be preparing for an election in 2001. The Budget recognizes a weakness in the National Health Service (NHS), yet also emphasizes the strength of the ruling Lbaor party. Labor has been conservative in its economic policies, which have helped to strengthen the British economy, and the opposition Conservative party has not offered a credible alternative. Chancellor, Gordon Brown, has performed well in terms of macroeconomic policy. Fiscal policy has been loosened slightly in the Mar 2000 Budget, and there has been a shift in focus from education to health. There is also a need for NHS reform.
Publication Name: The Economist (UK)
Subject: Business, international
ISSN: 0013-0613
Year: 2000
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Luck and judgeement
Article Abstract:
The British Mar 2000 Budget has loosened fiscal policy. The extra funds available may simply be linked to the business cycle, and could later disappear. There is also concern that inflationary pressures could appear, and that the Bank of England has to tackle the problem of inflation. Exporters have been affected by interest rate rises, and tighter fiscal policy would allow pound sterling to weaken and interest rates to be lower, though this may not be a way of attracting many votes.
Publication Name: The Economist (UK)
Subject: Business, international
ISSN: 0013-0613
Year: 2000
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It's us versus them, stupid
Article Abstract:
The British Mar 2000 Budget continues a policy if seeking macroeconomic stability. Spending has been increased rather than taxes being cut. The National Health Service has received a large amount of spending, and there is a risk that improvements may not be noted by election time. There is also a gamble that voters will support increased spending and not tax cuts. The chancellor, Gordon Brown, is also hoping that increased spending will ensure support from the party's traditional voters, though many traditional voters are concerned about workers losing their jobs as a result of high exchange rates. The government may not be reelected by as many votes as it expects.
Publication Name: The Economist (UK)
Subject: Business, international
ISSN: 0013-0613
Year: 2000
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