Seems to me that everyone thinks a 'successful economy' is critical to our future, but what characteristics would a 'successful economy' exhibit? The Ideal? It would exhibit private sector led growth Environmentally sustainable Reducing levels of relative poverty Reducing levels of health inequalities Increasing levels of health and well-being Increasing levels of employment with jobs that are doing 'good work' or as Cllr Walshaw suggests 'dignity of endeavour' Providing opportunities to work based on the culture, skills and passions of people as well as the commercial goals and employability demands of employers It would serve all people - rather than distort them to serve its demands It would provide access to services necessary for all to live a becoming existence The Current Reality? It would exhibit private sector led growth That's it. The wealth created may then be used to build a better society. … [Read more...]
An everyday story of ‘industrial policy’
Imagine I was to start-up a successful game development business right here in the northern town of Darkhaven, using the phenomenal talent available in the city, courtesy of a vibrant digital community carefully nurtured by public and private cash. I am exporting my games all over the world, employing hundreds in and around the city (as well as an army of coders over in Eastern Europe and Asia). We are an economic success story. The Finance Director knocks on my door and says 'Mike, its time for us to consider a move. If we were to relocate our business to Brighthaven I think we could negotiate some great breaks in return for the jobs we would bring them. They will prioritise an application for the Brighthaven Growth Fund that could pay for a purpose built HQ on their new business park, and they will give us the land for a snip. So, unless the economic development team at Darkhaven council are really prepared to up the support they give us we should really think about moving. And if Brighthaven don't come up with the goods there is always Southaven or anyone of another dozen cities that would love to be our home. And that's before we even look at the possibilities of moving the whole operation … [Read more...]
