People are asking me what I think of the Labour Party manifesto as we currently know it.<\/p>\n
I have already praised the corporation tax policy.<\/p>\n
I have suggested that the tax avoidance policies miss the big issues but hit some other targets.<\/p>\n
I think plans to change tax rates are moved in the right direction, but do not go far enough on capital gains, for example.<\/p>\n
But let me explore more broadly. The moves on education are wise. Business has demanded it. And should help pay for it.<\/p>\n
The NHS needs all the funding it can get.<\/p>\n
Tackling privatisations that have failed to deliver in promises is logical, and popular.<\/p>\n
Building houses is essential<\/p>\n
So too is protecting employees if inequality is to be reduced and people are literally going to be able to afford to live.<\/p>\n
Being open minded on Brexit just makes sense. Which means immigration has to be addressed, but cautiously.<\/p>\n
I could go on. My point is that there's little in here that doesn't make sense and is needed. It's also wholly affordable: most of this will simply pay for itself due to straightforward multiplier effects when there is so much capacity to do more in this country.<\/p>\n
But the point is, what makes this left wing rather than sensible management of an\u00a0economy where so much that needs to be done is currently left undone?<\/p>\n
I hope the National Investment Bank is to come.<\/p>\n