The UK is facing the worst of all outcomes from COVID-19 – a health crisis and an economic crash. Its time for the government to change gear and get us all back into the workplace according to DIB boss Frank McKenna.
Jim questions the government’s commitment to devolving transport powers to the North and urges ministers to bang councillors heads together in Lancashire in this week’s blog.
You can say what you want about Frank Mckenna – and he’ll be happy to let you say it. The Downtown boss on why the ‘Cancel Culture’ is a danger to democracy.
Jim thinks it is obvious why the government didn’t probe Russian interference in the Brexit Referendum. He also looks at the American Presidential race and how Donald Trump might refuse to quit.
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.
