English: George Osborne MP, pictured speaking on the launch of the Conservative Party manifesto for the 2009 European Parliament elections, at Keele University. (805×1207 px, 283,711 bytes) (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

This is an excellent article by Simon Jenkins in the Guardian. It’s a MUST READ, in my view. Check it out!

George Osborne talks tough but acts like a Labour chancellor | Simon Jenkins | Comment is free | The Guardian.

Personally, I do not agree with George Osborne’s priorities. I think that Osborne has ignored evidence-based policy and played to ideology and short-term political gain, rather than what is in the nation’s best interests. Osborne has been light on serious reform, e.g., still throwing money at the NHS, rather than insisting on it’s scrapping and replacement with a World-class system of public health. I agree with Jenkins that the local authorities have been decimated, especially the poorer, Labour-led, authorities, who have been traditionally dependent on central government handouts. The local authorities have typically savaged front-line services, rather than take a strategic approach to cost reduction (take a look at what this blog was arguing up to three years ago).

For sure, whoever wins the next election, there will definitely be more cuts or increased taxation.

Here are two open questions:

1. What has George Osborne really done to increase private sector investment, exports and the nations skill base?
2. Where will the ax falling the next government?

Any thoughts?

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