15 February 2024 , 23:14
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We’ve gone backwards
Few will be surprised that Britain has entered a recession. Families do not need official figures to know that wages have not kept pace with prices, that their weekly shop is more expensive and that covering the rent or mortgage has become a monthly struggle.
They are already feeling the consequences of 14 years of economic mismanagement. Under Rishi Sunak Britain has gone backwards with a stagnant economy trapping more in poverty, less money for public services and fewer workers in well-paid, secure jobs.
For the Tories to claim this is a “mild” recession is an insult to people trying to balance their budgets and to small business owners trying to keep their heads above water.
Voters will note Mr Sunak has failed to deliver on nearly all the promises he made. NHS waiting lists are at a near record, debt is up, people are still risking their lives to cross the Channel and the economy has not grown. This is a dismal record by a dismal Prime Minister who has not just run out of ideas but run this country down.
It’s pure greed
Just over three million households in England live in fuel poverty with many choosing between eating or heating. While families worry about covering energy bills, British Gas is celebrating after reporting a ten-fold rise in profits to £751million.
Teachers, civil servants and train drivers walk out in biggest strike in decade
These gains were made as the regulator rapped it for forcing vulnerable customers to have pre-payment meters. The contrast between their plight and the lavish pay and perks of British Gas’s bosses could not be more stark or obscene. This is yet another example of a corporate giant putting profits before people.
Spray for help
The problem of leaves on the line could soon be a thing of the past. Scientists are testing a chemical which could break down the foliage. They haven’t cracked it yet but they are on the right track.