With over half a million more Brits economically inactive compared to pre-pandemic, concerns grow about the UK's economic potential amid labor shortages. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced cracking down on disability benefits, claiming exploitation of the system. This week's IEA podcast asks: Where are the missing workers?
Host Matthew Lesh and guest Prof. Len Shackleton explore the spike in long-term sickness inactivity, especially among younger people. They analyze whether disability benefits are being exploited or if socioeconomic factors like mental health, drug abuse, and NHS backlogs are root causes. The pair also examine potential solutions from overhauling welfare incentives to boosting productivity through upskilling. Shackleton provides historical context on the "deserving" vs "undeserving" poor debate framing this complex policy challenge. Tune in for insights on a critical economic issue.
How will Ukraine recover after the war?
Live with Littlewood – with Emma Webb, Patrick Christys, Helen Dale and Victoria Hewson
Transparency in the Subsidy Control Bill
The Green Revolution: The IEA in conversation with John Redwood MP
The Swift Half with Snowdon ft. Jason Miller
The French Economic Miracle?
Should we support the government’s higher education reforms? | Markets & Morality | Ep.15
Live with Littlewood – with Ella Whelan, Sam Armstrong, Andrew Lilico and Andy Mayer
First do no harm: Avoidable harm in the health service
Escalation or appeasement: How should the West respond to Russia? | Markets & Morality | Ep.14
The Swift Half with Snowdon ft. Lionel Shriver
What is Levelling up?
Should Britain become a social democracy? Mark Littlewood debates William Clouston
Non-tariff barriers to free trade
Live with Littlewood | Asia-Pacific Special
In Conversation with David Davis MP
The Swift Half with Snowdon ft. Ed West
The Energy Price Cap Explained
Live with Littlewood – Ep 55
Subsidy Control Bill: How to utilise data
Create your
podcast in
minutes
It is Free