If we rip up trade agreements on the basis of human rights breaches and aggression towards other nations, it is not only China that would have to be on a list of blacklisted countries. Frank McKenna on why walking away from the Chinese is a daft idea.
Jim backs the government’s stand on China even though it might have implications for the Northern Powerhouse. He also aims a broadside at the BBC for cutting local programmes.
Frank McKenna reflects on another positive statement from Rishi Sunak, but warns the Chancellor that it is all about delivery now – and he needs local government to help him.
By style and substance Rishi Sunak has staked a claim to be the next Tory Prime Minister this week, according to Jim.But the blog also focuses on the crucial response of employers as the furlough scheme is wound up.
The reports of the death of cities are greatly exaggerated says Frank McKenna. Only a return to city life will see a quick bounce back for the UK economy, according to the Downtown boss.
Boris Johnson seems to be backing a big state, spending big to save the economy. Jim thinks that doesn’t leave much space for the Labour Party despite Keir Starmer’s determination to banish Corbynism.
Welcome though the re-opening of pubs is, Frank McKenna urges government, teachers and councils to prioritise a plan to get our kids back to school. The education lockdown has gone on too long and is damaging the life chances of a generation of children.
Four years on from the EU Referendum Jim welcomes the government’s tough line on not extending the transition talks…but there is a twist in his argument.
This week Downtown in Business unveiled its Manifesto for economic Recovery. In his latest blog, Frank McKenna explains why the government needs to think big and be bold if we are to avoid a return to the Eighties – with a nod in the direction (and an apology) to the late, great David Bowie.
Could Lancashire be about to make its voice heard alongside Manchester and Liverpool? An elected mayor for the county has come a step closer but it would mean big changes in the complex council structure. Jim examines these issues and speculates on who might get the job.
This week Frank McKenna reflects on Keir Starmer’s impressive start to life as Labour leader – but warns that he and the party have a long way to go before winning back the support they need to form a government.
Instead of blanking out history, we need to be tackling the hard tasks of improving BAME representation in our boardrooms. That’s the theme of Jim’s blog this wek where he also says there are challenges for the black community and protestors.
