Britain is going through a difficult time, when its sustained ability to punch above its weight, economically and diplomatically, is ebbing. The end of irrational exuberance found the country ill at ease with itself, with rising inequalities and unhealthy nationalism, just when it needs to be fleet-footed in recognising that many of the traditional pillars of its strengths have changed. The need is to recognise other supports and partners and find a new common purpose after the pandemic. I live in hope.

big deal

Announced in the UK's annual budget statement, manchester's "city deal" is a big deal (here's why). Been in the news too for other reasons, as has my cousin (see 17 november 2011) and my brother, who has recently struck out on his own and is doing very well. I continue to help others, edinburgh a while ago, and local government over the last months, with growth, my favourite topic

Attached File: deal.pdf