The British have always been addicted to doom-mongering

Article Abstract:

Grumbling and prediction of doom are British traits recorded in history. The monk Gildas wrote about moral decline causing the conquest by the Saxons in AD 550. Archbishop Wulfstan of York attributed national failure to moral decline in his sermon in 1014. John Major's government is more successful than those of Edward Heath, Harold Wilson, and Jim Callaghan, but his leadership style is weak. The removal of trade union problems eases government but fear of job loss and actual unemployment threaten morale. Loss of confidence in national institutions adds to national disenchantment.

Author: Johnson, Paul
Psychological aspects, History, British history, Social history, Britons, Britons (Ancient people)

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How the budget gods make us behave

Article Abstract:

There have been many examples of taxation policies which have aimed to change the social, personal and moral behaviour of ordinary people. These include taxes on alcohol and cigarettes, where there is evidence of some success in reducing consumption levels, and taxes designed to force people to comply with environmental targets, such as increasing the duty of leaded petrol. There have also been many tax measures aimed at increasing savings levels.

Author: Johnson, Paul, Tanner, Saray
Ethical aspects, Taxation

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A 10p tax rate will not banish the poverty trap

Article Abstract:

The UK government should be aware that reducing the basic rate of tax from 20p to 10p would not necessarily encourage many people to seek work, rather than living on benefits. Indeed, Chancellor Gordon Brown should not waste money on reducing the lower rate of income tax, and should focus his attention instead on the benefit system. In particular, he should consider how to use the Housing Benefit system to encourage people to find work.

Author: Johnson, Paul
Public Finance Activities, Personal Income Tax Rates, Personal income tax, Tax policy, Manpower policy, Tax rates, Job creation

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Subjects list: United Kingdom, Column
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