Nottingham chutzpah: daring to be dull

Article Abstract:

UK chancellor Kenneth Clarke's 1996 Budget had a strong tone of responsibility. This may be the best way to secure support for the Conservative party in the run-up to the next general election, but made the Budget extremely dull. Clarke has gained a reputation as a political exhibitionist, but this was not reflected at all in the Budget. However, there were a few signs of political optimism, and the tone of the Budget was inevitable given that Clarke had to compromise with a number of different forces within the Conservative party.

Editorial, Political activity, Clarke, Kenneth (American writer)

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Back in control? Blair and Campbell's big idea is ... honesty

Article Abstract:

UK Prime Minister Tony Blair and Alastair Campbell, his spokesman, have been considering the implications of manipulation of the media by government spin doctors in relation to whether the UK will join the European single currency. They have been discussing whether Campbell should go against convention and begin to conduct his daily briefings on the record. They believe that this could be quite beneficial, especially in terms of creating a clear hierarchy of who speaks on behalf of the government.

United Kingdom, Government and the press, Press policy

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The secret plan: gambling on honesty

Article Abstract:

Many observers believed that the government would focus on populist measures in the 1995 Budget in order to regain the support of voters. However, chancellor Kenneth Clarke has actually been much more responsible than this. He has resisted the temptation to introduce large tax cuts, and as a result of this interest rates may now fall. His measures are cautious, but some observers fear that he may be planning to cut spending too far.

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