Letters | 26 November 2011

Economy pack

Sir: Of your ten suggested remedies for the UK economy (‘Get it right, George!’, 19 November), not one mentions the obvious answer: recognise that communications technology is transforming every business and social model on the planet and accelerate Britain’s dozy and halfhearted commitment to invest in its communications infrastructure — broadband and mobile. Give the people the tools and they will generate the growth.
Peter Krijgsman
Somerset

Sir: The big ideas in your last issue will have a limited immediate impact on the one million youngsters out of work; something more radical is required. I suggest that the government spends money created by quantitative easing directly on infrastructure projects, matched to the available labour. ‘Inflation!’ you cry, but this will not be a problem if the creation of money by the banks is stopped (fractional reserve lending). This solution does not increase anyone’s debt.
John Schofield
By email

Sir: Your contributors offering solutions to kick-start the economy should be wary in case their wishes come true.

Typically, Terry Smith wants cuts in taxes and state spending. Imagine a country with even fewer libraries, more youth clubs and sports facilities closed down, public parks overgrown and piled with rubbish, an increase in accidents because there is no funding for factory inspectors, and widespread food poisoning because restaurants are not checked. Currently, if we buy a television or fridge we can be reasonably certain that it will not burst into flames because there is safety legislation and enforcement, and we can drive down the streets fairly sure that other vehicles will have brakes and tyres that have been made to decent standards.