Shows
IEA PodcastFuture of the American Right | Grover Norquist | IEA InterviewIn this Institute of Economic Affairs podcast, IEA Executive Director Tom Clougherty interviews Grover Norquist, founder and president of Americans for Tax Reform. The conversation covers the Taxpayer Protection Pledge, which has transformed American politics over the past 40 years, how the Republican Party became the party that will not raise taxes, and the future direction of the conservative movement in the United States.Norquist explains how the pledge system works and its impact on both federal and state politics. He discusses the dramatic shift since 1994, when 96% of Republicans signed the pledge, ending 62 years of Democratic congressional dominance...
2025-12-0158 min
IEA PodcastThe Great British Exodus: Wealth Creators Abandoning the UKTom Clougherty, Former Executive Director of the Institute of Economic Affairs, hosts a Conservative Party Conference panel discussion on Britain’s tax system and its impact on wealth creators. Joining him are John O’Connell, Chief Executive of the Taxpayers Alliance, Mark Garnier MP, Shadow Economic Secretary, Samuel Hughes, Editor at Works in Progress, and Alys Denby, Opinion and Features Editor at City AM. The panel examines how Labour’s tax policies - including changes to non-dom status, inheritance tax on global assets, and VAT on private school fees - are driving entrepreneurs and wealthy individuals overseas, with particularly stark...
2025-10-2059 min
IEA PodcastKemi Badenoch's Big Gamble: Can Scrapping Stamp Duty Save the Tories? | IEA PodcastIn this Institute of Economic Affairs podcast, Head of Media Reem Ibrahim is joined by IEA Executive Director Tom Clougherty and Editorial Director Kristian Niemietz to discuss the aftermath of Conservative Party Conference. The conversation examines Kemi Badenoch’s headline announcement to abolish stamp duty land tax on primary residences, alongside the party’s proposed £47 billion in spending cuts through their new “golden rule.” They analyse why stamp duty is Britain’s most distortionary tax, costing 75p in economic damage for every pound raised, and how abolishing it could unlock a frozen property market where people now move house half as oft...
2025-10-1041 min
The CapitalistSpecial: Does Britain need a chainsaw revolution?Javier Milei’s Argentina has drawn the admiration of many British conservatives. But what would a “British Milei” really look like — and would the civil service, Parliament, or the public ever let one govern? That question animated a lively CapX panel at the Conservative Party Conference in Manchester, chaired by Joseph Dinnage, with Jack Rankin MP, Annunziata Rees-Mogg of Popular Conservatives, Tom Clougherty of the Institute of Economic Affairs, and Tom Harwood of GB News. The discussion drew heavily on Argentina’s libertarian experiment under President Javier Milei — his slash-and-burn of ministries, his rapid deficit elimination, and his flair for politica...
2025-10-101h 00
IEA PodcastThe Great Depression: Did the New Deal Fail? | George Selgin | IEA LiveIn this Institute of Economic Affairs event, IEA Executive Director Tom Clougherty interviews George Selgin about his new book “False Dawn: The New Deal and the Promise of Recovery, 1933-1947.” Selgin is a Senior Fellow and Former Director of the Centre for Monetary and Financial Alternatives at the Cato Institute and Professor Emeritus of Economics at the University of Georgia. The conversation examines how the US finally recovered from the Great Depression and what exact contribution the New Deal made to that recovery.Selgin challenges conventional wisdom about the New Deal, arguing it was neither a Keynesian fisc...
2025-10-061h 29
IEA PodcastBreaking Down Rachel Reeves's Confused Conference Speech | IEA PodcastIn this Institute of Economic Affairs podcast, Head of Media and Communications Reem Ibrahim is joined by Executive Director Tom Clougherty and Editorial Director Kristian Niemietz to discuss the aftermath of the Labour Party conference. The conversation examines Rachel Reeves’s speech as Chancellor, analysing her dual messaging that attempts to position Labour both as a left-wing alternative to the Conservatives and as the pro-business, fiscally responsible party against Reform. They discuss the notable absence of tax policy details ahead of the autumn budget, the focus on initiatives like school breakfast clubs rather than substantive economic strategy, and concerns th...
2025-10-0345 min
IEA PodcastWhy Government Spending Never Goes Down | IEA PodcastIn this Institute of Economic Affairs podcast, Communications Director Callum Price is joined by Executive Director Tom Clougherty and Managing Editor Daniel Freeman. The conversation covers Andy Burnham’s vision for “Burnhamism” - his self-described “business friendly socialism” outlined in a lengthy New Statesman interview. They examine his proposals for mass renationalisation of buses, railways, energy and water companies, along with ambitious social housing programs funded through wealth taxes. The discussion also explores the Resolution Foundation’s latest tax proposals, including their suggestion to shift from National Insurance to income tax while raising overall revenue by £35 billion.The hosts cri...
2025-09-2635 min
IEA PodcastBritain's £36bn Black Hole | IEA PodcastIn this Institute of Economic Affairs podcast, IEA Head of Media and Linda Whetstone Scholar Reem Ibrahim interviews Executive Director Tom Clougherty and Editorial Director Kristian Niemietz. The conversation covers the deteriorating UK economy, examining zero growth in July, persistent inflation at 3.8%, and the highest August borrowing figures in five years. They discuss the Office for Budget Responsibility's expected downgrade of productivity forecasts, which could create an additional £36 billion fiscal black hole, and analyse why public sector productivity assumptions of four times historical growth rates appear unrealistic.The discussion explores Trump's recent visit to the UK and t...
2025-09-1941 min
IEA PodcastNobel Prize Economist: Why Institutions Matter | IEA InterviewIn this Institute of Economic Affairs podcast, IEA Executive Director Tom Clougherty interviews Professor Simon Johnson, 2024 Nobel Prize winner in Economics from MIT. The conversation explores Johnson's groundbreaking research on extractive versus inclusive institutions and how colonial mortality rates shaped economic development patterns that persist today. Johnson explains how European settlers' different experiences with disease in various colonies led to fundamentally different institutional structures - from the inclusive property rights systems established in North America to the extractive frameworks left behind in West Africa and the Caribbean.The discussion examines how these institutional differences became supercharged during...
2025-09-1748 min
IEA PodcastThe Splintering of British Politics: Left and Right in CrisisIn this Institute of Economic Affairs podcast, Communications Director Callum Price interviews Executive Director Tom Clougherty and Editorial Director Kristian Niemietz. The conversation examines Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch's offer to help Labour cut the welfare bill and her party's return to fiscal conservatism. They discuss whether this represents genuine commitment to balanced budgets or political positioning, questioning how radical the Conservatives are prepared to be when they refuse to touch entitlements for older voters like the state pension and triple lock.The discussion turns to Labour's internal divisions as the party faces a deputy leadership contest that...
2025-09-1247 min
IEA PodcastIs Britain Really Going Broke? The Truth About Our 'Fiscal Crisis' | IEA PodcastIn this Institute of Economic Affairs Podcast, Managing Editor Daniel Freeman is joined by Executive Director Tom Clougherty and Editorial Director Kristian Niemietz to examine whether Britain is truly facing fiscal meltdown or if the doom-mongering has been overblown. The conversation unpacks Chris Giles' Financial Times analysis arguing that Britain's fiscal situation, while problematic, may not be as catastrophic as commonly portrayed. They discuss how Britain's deficit compares favourably to the United States, why UK borrowing costs remain stubbornly high despite relatively better fundamentals, and whether the endless cycle of fiscal speculation created by having two budget events per...
2025-09-0546 min
IEA PodcastBritain's Doom Loop: Why We Can't Stop Borrowing | IEA PodcastIn this Institute of Economic Affairs Podcast, Director of Communications Callum Price hosts a discussion with IEA Executive Director Tom Clougherty and Managing Editor Daniel Freeman on Britain's escalating fiscal crisis and the government's response. The conversation examines why UK borrowing costs have reached their highest levels since 1997 - famously dubbed "the highest since Geri Halliwell left the Spice Girls" - making Britain consistently the worst performer among G7 countries for government debt costs.The panel dissects the three key factors driving this crisis: declining investor confidence in fiscal policy credibility following government U-turns on Winter Fuel...
2025-08-2942 min
IEA PodcastFormer Obama Administrator: Is Liberalism Dead? | IEA InterviewIn this Institute of Economic Affairs interview, our Executive Director Tom Clougherty interviews Professor Cass Sunstein, former Obama administration official and co-author of "Nudge", discussing his new book "On Liberalism: In Defence of Freedom". The conversation explores Sunstein's "big tent liberalism" that encompasses figures from Reagan to Roosevelt, examining how liberalism can unite diverse political perspectives around core commitments to pluralism, freedom, and the rule of law while accommodating different views on economic policy and social issues.Sunstein defends his concept of "experiments in living" as central to liberal philosophy, drawing from John Stuart Mill's ideas to...
2025-08-2750 min
IEA PodcastBritain to Face BIGGEST Tax Rise in Decades? | IEA PodcastIn this Institute of Economic Affairs Podcast, Head of Media Reem Ibrahim hosts a discussion with IEA Executive Director Tom Clougherty and Managing Editor Daniel Freeman on the government's upcoming budget and various tax policy proposals currently being floated. The conversation covers a "tax proposal extravaganza" including potential reforms to property taxation, capital gains tax on primary residences, pension lump sum changes, and inheritance tax modifications. They examine how these proposals might affect the UK's fiscal position ahead of the anticipated autumn budget, with the government facing a significant fiscal gap of potentially up to £50 billion.The d...
2025-08-2249 min
IEA PodcastBritain's £50 Billion Black Hole: Beyond the Point of No Return? | IEA PodcastIn this IEA podcast, Managing Editor Daniel Freeman interviews Tom Clougherty, Executive Director, and Dr. Stephen Davies, Senior Education Fellow. The conversation examines Britain's looming £50 billion fiscal black hole identified by the National Institute of Economic and Social Research, exploring why Rachel Reeves will miss her fiscal targets and what this means for the UK's financial future. They discuss the structural problems driving persistent deficits, from an ageing population to productivity failures, and why traditional austerity approaches have failed to solve the underlying issues.The discussion covers potential solutions to Britain's fiscal crisis, including radical reforms to p...
2025-08-0849 min
IEA PodcastThe UK Government Just Made a MASSIVE Mistake | IEA PodcastIn this Institute of Economic Affairs podcast, host Callum Price interviews Executive Director Tom Clougherty and Editorial Director Kristian Niemietz. The conversation examines the immediate impact of the Online Safety Act's age verification requirements, which have led to widespread content blocking, a 1400% surge in VPN downloads, and legitimate websites restricting UK access. They discuss how the legislation mirrors previous regulatory failures like the banking anti-money laundering scandal, creating false positives that harm innocent users while failing to achieve its stated objectives.The discussion moves to Ofgem's controversial proposal to make energy standing charges progressive based on income...
2025-08-0148 min
IEA PodcastMilei Model for UK, Wealth Tax Warning & the Extremist Youth Poll | IEA PodcastIn this Institute of Economic Affairs podcast, host Reem Ibrahim, Head of Media and Linda Whetstone Scholar, with guests Tom Clougherty, Executive Director, and Kristian Niemietz, Editorial Director. The conversation covers the UK's deteriorating fiscal situation with June borrowing hitting £21 billion - £7 billion more than last year - and the growing pressure on Chancellor Rachel Reeves to raise taxes. They examine new research on wealth taxes by Dan Neidle, showing how a UK wealth tax would likely be more damaging than similar policies in other countries due to the mobile nature of Britain's wealthy population and the absence of ex...
2025-07-2548 min
IEA PodcastFormer Chief Goldman Sachs Economist Lord O'Neill: Why Britain is Stagnant | IEA InterviewIn this Institute of Economic Affairs podcast, Executive Director Tom Clougherty interviews Lord Jim O'Neill, former Chief Economist at Goldman Sachs and the economist who coined the term "BRICS." The conversation covers Britain's decade-long economic stagnation, examining whether the 2008 financial crisis exposed deep-seated problems or created new ones. O'Neill discusses his work on regional inequality and the Northern Powerhouse initiative, explaining why cities like Manchester, Leeds, and Liverpool fail to demonstrate the productivity gains seen in other countries' major urban centres.O'Neill shares insights from his time developing the Northern Powerhouse concept, highlighting Greater Manchester's recent productivity...
2025-07-2153 min
IEA PodcastFinancial Deregulation, Job Losses & Tax Reality: Britain's Economic Crossroads | IEA PodcastIn this Institute of Economic Affairs podcast, IEA Head of Media Reem Ibrahim interviews Tom Clougherty, the IEA Executive Director, and Kristian Niemietz, the IEA's Editorial Director. The conversation covers Rachel Reeves' recent speech on financial regulation, examining both the positive moves toward deregulation and concerning developments like government-backed mortgage guarantees. They also analyse the latest labour market statistics showing 178,000 job losses since June 2024 and the alarming rise in economic inactivity, with 21% of working-age adults now economically inactive.The discussion explores how employer National Insurance contribution increases and tighter employment regulation are creating significant headwinds for job...
2025-07-1849 min
IEA PodcastLabour's First Year & Socialism's Return | IEA PodcastIn this Institute of Economic Affairs podcast, Director of Communications Callum Price hosts a discussion with Executive Director Tom Clougherty and Editorial Director Kristian Niemietz on Labour's first year in government since their July 2024 election victory. The conversation examines Labour's economic performance, focusing on their growth mission, fiscal challenges, and supply-side reforms. They assess the government's struggles with their pro-growth agenda, the impact of their tax-and-spend budget that raised taxes by £40 billion while increasing spending by £70 billion, and the recent market turbulence around gilt yields and the pound.The discussion explores Britain's fiscal fragility, with debt interest pa...
2025-07-0445 min
IEA PodcastWhy Both Left and Right Have Failed on Growth | Julia WillemynsIn this Institute of Economic Affairs podcast, IEA Executive Director Tom Clougherty interviews Julia Willemyns, co-founder of the Centre for British Progress. The conversation explores the Centre's mission to promote pro-growth policies from a progressive perspective, examining how the centre-left can embrace economic growth and supply-side liberalisation. Willemyns discusses the organisation's evolution from UK Day One, their focus on addressing barriers to progress in Britain, and their belief that economic growth is essential for human progress and social mobility.The discussion covers key policy areas including planning reform, energy policy, and market dynamism. Willemyns advocates for "system...
2025-06-3045 min
IEA PodcastNHS Waste, Welfare Traps & Failed Industrial Strategy: Britain's Triple Crisis | IEA PodcastIn this Institute of Economic Affairs podcast, Communications Manager Reem Ibrahim is joined by Executive Director Tom Clougherty and Editorial Director Kristian Niemietz. The conversation covers NHS productivity challenges, the government's welfare reform U-turn, and Labour's new industrial strategy. They examine how the NHS struggles to convert financial resources into productive medical inputs, despite having adequate funding compared to OECD averages, and discuss the need for decentralised decision-making and increased capital investment in healthcare.The discussion turns to the government's retreat on welfare reforms, particularly around Personal Independence Payments, after facing political pressure. They analyse the dramatic...
2025-06-2739 min
IEA PodcastTax Expert Dan Neidle: Why Wealth Taxes Will Backfire Spectacularly | IEA InterviewIn this Institute of Economic Affairs Podcast Interview, IEA Executive Director Tom Clougherty interviews Dan Neidle, founder of Tax Policy Associates and one of the UK's most respected tax experts. The conversation covers the fundamental problems with Britain's tax system, examining public misunderstanding of how tax thresholds work, the challenges of pro-growth tax reform, and why wealth taxes are likely to fail. They also discuss the absurd cliff edges in income tax that discourage people from earning between £100,000-£125,000, creating effective marginal rates of up to 62%. Dan explains why current tax policy is made through "political theatre" ra...
2025-06-231h 14
IEA PodcastHS2 Billions, Trump's Tax Chaos & The Liberal Identity Crisis | IEA PodcastIn this Institute of Economic Affairs Podcast, IEA Executive Director Tom Clougherty is joined by Managing Editor Daniel Freeman and Editorial Director Kristian Niemietz for a wide-ranging discussion covering three major policy areas. The conversation examines the spiralling costs and delays of HS2, which now has no fixed opening date despite ballooning to over £100 billion for a truncated route that no longer reaches Manchester or Leeds. They also debate whether classical liberals should abandon the term "liberal" in response to Rod Liddle's argument that the word has been captured by progressive movements, and conclude with an analysis of Donald T...
2025-06-2348 min
IEA PodcastChancellor's Spending Review: All Money, No Vision | IEA PodcastIn this Institute of Economic Affairs podcast, Communications Director Callum Price is joined by Executive Director Tom Clougherty and Editorial Director Kristian Niemietz to examine the government's latest spending review. The conversation covers Rachel Reeves' announcement of increased NHS funding - another 3% real terms increase annually - while implementing spending cuts across most other departments through what they describe as "classic salami slicing" rather than genuine zero-based budgeting. They discuss how the government has abandoned any meaningful NHS reform agenda, reverting to simply throwing money at the health service despite previous promises of structural change.The hosts...
2025-06-1334 min
The Peter McCormack Show#081 - Tom Clougherty - How the Government Broke the EconomyTom Clougherty is the Executive Director and Ralph Harris Fellow at the Institute of Economic Affairs, and one of Britain's leading advocates for free markets, limited government, and economic reform. With years of policy experience and a deep understanding of Britain's institutional dysfunction, Tom offers a no-nonsense diagnosis of the UK's economic decline. In this interview, we explore why Britain feels broken - from punitive taxes and housing failures to bureaucratic overreach, political cowardice, and collapsing public services. Tom explains how the UK lost its economic edge, why the middle class is being hollowed out, and what...
2025-06-102h 17
IEA PodcastWinter Fuel U-Turn & Britain's Fiscal Time Bomb | IEA PodcastIn this Institute of Economic Affairs podcast, Communications Director Callum Price hosts Executive Director Tom Clougherty and Editorial Director Kristian Niemietz for a wide-ranging discussion on three major political and economic issues facing Britain. The conversation covers the government's troubled handling of winter fuel payment reforms, examining how Labour's partial U-turn reveals the deeper political challenges of reforming old-age benefits in an ageing society. They also explore Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch's new focus on tackling "lawfare" and her party's plans to potentially withdraw from the European Convention on Human Rights, discussing how legal activism and judicial overreach are constraining...
2025-06-0647 min
IEA PodcastHow to Save Western Civilisation | Johan Norberg | IEA InterviewIn this Institute of Economic Affairs podcast, IEA Executive Director Tom Clougherty interviews Johan Norberg, author of the new book "Peak Human: What We Can Learn From the Rise and Fall of Golden Ages." Norberg, a prominent figure in the global freedom movement since his 2001 work "In Defence of Global Capitalism," explores what makes civilizations flourish and why they eventually decline. The conversation examines the essential preconditions for golden ages throughout history, including the importance of openness to other cultures, innovation, rule of law, and a crucial psychological element - the cultural optimism and self-belief that drives societies toward...
2025-06-0248 min
IEA PodcastDoctors Strike & UK's 60% Tax Rate |IEA PodcastIn this Institute of Economic Affairs podcast, Communications Manager Reem Ibrahim hosts Executive Director Tom Clougherty and Editorial Director Kristian Niemietz for a wide-ranging discussion on Britain's broken systems. The conversation begins with Nigel Farage's proposal for transferable tax allowances between married couples, examining how the UK's individual taxation system creates massive inequities for families. They reveal the shocking reality that households with identical incomes can pay wildly different tax rates depending on how earnings are split, with some families facing effective tax rates of 60% due to the £100,000 personal allowance cliff edge.The discussion moves to junior d...
2025-05-3043 min
IEA PodcastBritain's 15-Years of Stagnation & What to Do | Sam Bowman | IEA InterviewIn this Institute of Economic Affairs Podcast, IEA Executive Director Tom Clougherty interviews Sam Bowman, founding editor of Works in Progress magazine, head of publishing at Stripe, and board member at the Mercatus Centre at George Mason University. The conversation explores Bowman's journey from his early days at the Adam Smith Institute to his current work promoting progress studies - a movement focused on economic, technological and scientific advancement. They discuss the cultural shift against material progress in developed countries, comparing it to the more optimistic, improvement-focused mindsets still prevalent in Central and Eastern Europe, East Asia, and parts...
2025-05-211h 09
IEA PodcastDavid Friedman Explains Why Trump's Tariffs Will Fail | IEA LiveIn this Institute of Economic Affairs Podcast, IEA Executive Director Tom Clougherty interviews David Friedman, renowned economist and author of "The Machinery of Freedom." The conversation explores Friedman's critique of modern trade policy discussions, which he compares to using "Ptolemaic astronomy" for contemporary issues. Friedman systematically dismantles common misconceptions about trade deficits, tariffs, and international commerce while explaining how exchange rates naturally balance trade between nations.David shares his insights on how tariffs harm both importing and exporting industries within a country, making the entire nation poorer by forcing less efficient production methods. The discussion also covers...
2025-05-121h 00
IEA PodcastIndia & US Trade Deals: Do They REALLY Benefit Britain? | IEA PodcastIn this episode of the Institute of Economic Affairs Podcast, host Reem Ibrahim, Communications Manager and Linda Whetstone Scholar, is joined by Tom Clougherty, Executive Director, and Kristian Niemietz, Editorial Director, to discuss the recent US & India UK trade deals and Northern Ireland's new approach to the National Health Service.The discussion begins with an analysis of the UK-India trade deal, which eliminates 99% of tariffs for the UK and 90% for India. The panel examines the economic benefits of the agreement while expressing disappointment about how some politicians, particularly on the right, focused heavily on National Insurance exemptions...
2025-05-0937 min
IEA PodcastEurope Goes Dark & Trump's 100 Days | IEA PodcastIn this episode of the IEA Podcast, host Callum Price (Director of Communications) is joined by Tom Clougherty (Executive Director) and Andy Mayer (Energy Analyst) to discuss Trumps’ first 100 days, London housing crisis and recent energy issues. They examine the blackouts in the Iberian Peninsula, where approximately 60% of Spain's power was coming from solar energy before system failures occurred. Andy Mayer explains how this demonstrates the systemic risks of relying too heavily on renewable energy without proper balancing measures, and critiques the UK government's announcement requiring solar panels on all new builds.The conversation shifts to London's ho...
2025-05-0247 min
IEA PodcastJacob Rees-Mogg on Why The UK's Economic System Is Broken | IEA InterviewsIn this Institute of Economic Affairs podcast, IEA Executive Director Tom Clougherty interviews Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg, former Minister of State for Brexit Opportunities and Government Efficiency, and former Business Secretary. The conversation covers the exodus of wealth creators from Britain, examining how tax policies - particularly changes to non-dom status initiated by successive governments - have driven wealthy individuals and businesses overseas. They also discuss the broader issues of high taxation, economic growth, and government inefficiency.Sir Jacob shares his views on government spending and the need for substantial reforms, identifying specific areas like overseas aid, carbon...
2025-04-3047 min
IEA PodcastWho Will Pay More Tax? IFS Paul Johnson | IEA InterviewIn this interview, former Institute for Fiscal Studies Director Paul Johnson joins IEA Executive Director Tom Clougherty to discuss the major fiscal policy trends in Britain over Johnson's 14-year tenure. Johnson offers a comprehensive analysis of how the UK tax system has evolved under Conservative governments, highlighting the surprising increase in tax progressivity and the record-high tax burden as a percentage of national income, which has risen from around 33-34% historically to 38% today.The discussion explores challenging fiscal realities facing the UK, including rising public debt, increasing demands on public services, and the impact of recent global...
2025-04-1445 min
IEA PodcastTrump vs Markets: The Financial Crisis & His Tariff Retreat | IEA PodcastIn this episode of the IEA podcast, host Callum Price, Director of Communications, is joined by Tom Clougherty, Executive Director, and Dr. Kristian Niemietz, Editorial Director, to discuss recent economic developments. The conversation begins with an analysis of President Trump's tariff policies, including his recent 90-day pause on certain tariff increases beyond the 10% base rate. They then examine Westminster City Council's controversial proposal to seize properties left empty for over six months, and finally discuss the economic implications of the newly approved Universal theme park in Bedford, debating whether it should be required to use exclusively British steel.
2025-04-1134 min
IEA PodcastBritain's Economic COLLAPSE: From Global Leader to 27th Place | Lord Moynihan | IEA LiveIn this IEA Live event interview, Executive Director Tom Clougherty sits down with Lord Moynihan of Chelsea to explore the key themes from his two-volume work "Return to Growth." Lord Moynihan presents his analysis of what he calls "the three devils" preventing UK economic growth: excessive government spending, high taxation, and burdensome regulation. Throughout their conversation, they explore how the UK has moved from a position of economic strength to facing stagnant growth, with current GDP per capita growth effectively at zero. Lord Moynihan offers a stark assessment of Britain's economic decline, arguing that the country has...
2025-04-101h 19
IEA PodcastTrump's New Tariff Plan Explained, UK Savings & Wealth Inequality | IEA PodcastIn this episode of the IEA podcast, host Callum Price, Director of Communications, is joined by Tom Clougherty, Executive Director, and Dr. Kristian Niemietz, Editorial Director, to discuss recent economic developments. The conversation begins with an analysis of former President Trump's newly announced tariff plan, which imposes varying rates from 10% to 46% on different countries, with the UK subject to the minimum 10% rate. The guests examine the formula behind these tariffs and the potential impact on international trade.The podcast then shifts to domestic UK issues, focusing on potential changes to cash ISAs (Individual Savings Accounts) by Chancellor...
2025-04-0434 min
IEA PodcastAnalysis: What the Chancellor SHOULD Have DoneIEA Executive Director Tom Clougherty analyses Chancellor Rachel Reeves's Spring Budget statement of March 26, 2025. With economic forecasts worsening since October, the government's fiscal headroom has disappeared, leading to cuts in welfare and departmental spending alongside another effort to tackle tax avoidance. The budget appears to be an exercise in meeting minimum fiscal targets rather than addressing fundamental economic issues. Clougherty criticises how fiscal events have become focused on gaming OBR forecasts five years out rather than implementing principled long-term policymaking. Growth forecasts have been halved to just 1% for 2025, with lacklustre projections through the forecast window. He notes...
2025-03-2606 min
IEA PodcastThe Truth About Britain's Welfare State & Peak Woke? | IEA PodcastIn this episode of the IEA Podcast, Communications Manager Reem Ibrahim is joined by Tom Clougherty, Executive Director, and Dr. Kristian Niemietz, Editorial Director at the Institute for Economic Affairs. The team discusses whether the left has turned against woke ideology, examining how socialist figures are now distancing themselves from identity politics to refocus on class struggle. The conversation shifts to Kemi Badenoch's recent speech rejecting net zero targets, with Tom arguing that while abandoning the 2050 goal is sensible, the issue isn't that net zero is impossible but rather that it's undesirable at the necessary cost. The...
2025-03-2134 min
IEA PodcastPeter Schiff: Trump & The Truth About America's Fake Prosperity? | IEA InterviewJoin IEA Executive Director Tom Clougherty as he sits down with renowned economist and investor Peter Schiff for a compelling discussion on economic principles, government policy, and financial markets. Schiff, who predicted the 2008 financial crisis, explains his free-market Austrian School economics perspective and why he believes current monetary policies are creating dangerous economic bubbles that are leading toward a severe dollar and sovereign debt crisis. The conversation explores Schiff's criticisms of cryptocurrency, particularly Bitcoin, arguing that unlike gold, it skips the commodity phase essential for sound money. Schiff also offers pointed critique of US trade deficits, arguing...
2025-03-1253 min
IEA PodcastThe Uncomfortable Truth About Welfare, Housing & Unions In Britain Today | IEA PodcastIn this episode of the Institute of Economic Affairs podcast, Callum Price (Director of Communications) is joined by Tom Clougherty (Executive Director) and Dr. Kristian Niemietz (Editorial Director) to discuss recent political developments. The team examines Rachel Reeves' proposed welfare cuts, highlighting the dramatic increase in benefits claims since COVID and questioning whether the system's incentives have deteriorated over time. The conversation shifts to planning reform, analysing whether the government's approach will effectively address the UK's housing shortage. They discuss the merits of moving from a discretionary planning system to zoning, while examining the historical context of...
2025-03-0744 min
IEA PodcastReform UK's Energy Policy & New Towns | IEA PodcastIn this episode of the IEA Podcast, host Reem Ibrahim sits down with Tom Clougherty and Kristian Niemietz to dive into the latest policy developments across the UK. The discussion kicks off with an analysis of the government's ambitious new towns initiative, examining whether central planning is the right approach to solving Britain's housing crisis. The conversation then shifts to Reform UK's recently announced energy policies, including their controversial windfall tax on renewable power and ban on battery storage systems. The guests critique these measures from a free market perspective, arguing that they represent an "authoritarian approach"...
2025-02-1648 min
IEA PodcastThe Uncomfortable Truth About Why British Government Is Failing | Sam Freedman | IEA Book ClubIn this IEA Book Club event, Sam Freedman, Senior Fellow at the Institute for Government, discusses his new book "Failed State: Why Nothing Works and How to Fix It" with IEA Executive Director Tom Clougherty. Freedman, who previously served as a Senior Policy Adviser to Michael Gove and Executive Director of Teach First, presents a stark analysis of Britain's governance crisis. Freedman argues that decades of increasing centralisation, executive dominance, and media-driven policymaking have created a state that is fundamentally unable to deliver effective governance. Through concrete examples and detailed analysis, he illustrates how the concentration of...
2025-02-121h 14
IEA PodcastTrade Wars Return: What Trump's Tariffs Mean for the WorldDonald Trump is threatening 25% tariffs on allies - from Canada to Europe. The Bank of England has halved its growth forecasts. And the government is pushing nuclear power forward. We break down what this all means and why it matters. In this episode of the IEA podcast, Director of Communications Callum Price is joined by Editorial Director Kristian Niemietz and Executive Director Tom Clougherty. Kristian Niemietz explains why Trump's protectionist instincts could damage global trade and make everyone poorer. Then we dive into the UK's productivity crisis with Executive Director Tom Clougherty, exploring why output...
2025-02-0744 min
IEA PodcastAnalysing Reeves' Growth Strategy and Brexit's Legacy | IEA PodcastIn this episode, Reem Ibrahim is joined by Tom Clougherty and Dr Kristian Niemietz to analyse Rachel Reeves' recent growth-focused speech and Keir Starmer's commitment to deregulation. The team examines the apparent contradiction between Labour's pro-growth rhetoric and their policies on employment law, environmental regulations, and taxation - drawing interesting parallels with the French economic model. The conversation shifts to reflect on the five-year anniversary of Brexit, evaluating its outcomes against the original promises and aspirations. While Britain has technically "taken back control," the panel discusses how regulatory power has often simply shifted from Brussels bureaucrats to...
2025-01-3130 min
IEA PodcastStarmer's Dilemma: Can Labour Save the Economy Without Killing Net Zero? | IEA PodcastIn this IEA podcast, host Callum Price, Director of Communications, joins Executive Director Tom Clougherty and Editorial Director Kristian Niemietz to analyse Labour's potential economic strategy. They examine Rachel Reeves and Keir Starmer's rhetoric around supply-side reforms, critically assessing whether the party's current approach can genuinely drive economic growth. The discussion explores the UK's net zero commitments against the backdrop of changing global environmental policies. With the US potentially shifting away from aggressive green initiatives, the podcast evaluates the economic implications of the UK's current decarbonisation strategy and its potential impact on national competitiveness. The...
2025-01-2447 min
IEA PodcastWATCH: 'This Can't Go On' - IEA Director's Urgent Warning for Britain's FutureIn this GB News interview, Institute of Economic Affairs Executive Director Tom Clougherty discusses Britain's economic challenges and the need for new radical ideas to overcome them. Addressing years of high taxes and low growth, he explains how many young Brits in their twenties and thirties have never experienced real economic growth, with incomes remaining stagnant since 2007.Rather than pointing to a single solution, Clougherty argues that Britain needs hundreds of changes across the economy. He discusses the need to reform energy policy, housing, and what he calls a "bureaucratic state" that's suffocating growth.Clougherty...
2025-01-2006 min
IEA PodcastHow Britain Learned to Stop Growing | IEA PodcastIn this episode, we explore Ed Davey's proposal for the UK to rejoin the EU customs union. Reem Ibrahim, Tom Clougherty, and Kristian Niemietz demonstrate why this approach would be a backward step even from a Remainer perspective, highlighting how it would give Britain "the worst of all worlds" while restricting its ability to pursue independent trade deals. Their analysis reveals why the customs union was consistently the least beneficial aspect of EU membership for the UK, contrasting with the experience of smaller European nations. Moving to Britain's growth crisis, inspired by Janan Ganesh's thought-provoking FT article "...
2025-01-1843 min
IEA PodcastGovernment Spending Out of Control? And the NHS & Schools Crisis Explained | IEA PodcastIn this episode, we dive into the UK's current borrowing challenges and the government's fiscal rules. Tom Clougherty, Executive Director, explains why the situation presents a significant problem for the government as borrowing costs rise and economic growth remains sluggish. The discussion explores how this could force difficult choices between spending cuts and tax increases, with potential implications for the UK's economic future. The conversation then turns to NHS reforms, where Kristian Niemietz, Editorial Director, analyses the government's recent announcements, including plans for new diagnostic centres and upgrades to the NHS app. He traces the evolution of...
2025-01-1043 min
IEA PodcastThe Real Reason UK Growth Collapsed After 2008 with Tyler Goodspeed | IEA LiveJoin us for the IEA Ralph Harris Centenary Lecture featuring Tyler Goodspeed, former Acting Chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers, who delivers his analysis of the UK's economic challenges. Goodspeed reveals that the UK is approximately 40% poorer per person than the US, with British workers producing less in a full year than American workers do by August. He explains how the 2008 financial crisis triggered not just a temporary downturn, but a fundamental change in the UK's growth trajectory, largely due to the different regulatory responses in the UK versus the US. The lecture goes on to...
2025-01-091h 12
IEA PodcastThe Best and Worst Economic Decisions of 2024 | IEA PodcastIn this episode of the IEA Podcast, host Reem Ibrahim joins Tom Clougherty and Daniel Freeman to reflect on the economic and policy highlights and lowlights of 2024. The discussion kicks off with a critical analysis of the government's October budget and its impact on British businesses, followed by concerns about rising protectionism in America and the concerning trend of outdoor smoking bans and other nanny state interventions. The conversation then shifts to more positive developments, including Argentina's promising economic reforms under President Milei and his bold approach to cutting government spending and regulation. The team also discusses...
2025-01-0957 min
IEA PodcastStarmer's Vision, Police Crisis & Immigration Chaos | IEA PodcastIn this week’s episode of the IEA Podcast, Callum Price (Director of Communications), Tom Clougherty (Executive Director) and Kristian Niemietz (Editorial Director) analyse Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's recent "Plan for Change" speech. The speech set out Labour's vision for growth and public services. Whilst the speech contained some positive ambitions, such as building 1.5 million homes, it lacked a clear theory of change for how these goals can actually be achieved in practice. We explore how the planning system remains a fundamental barrier to progress across multiple policy areas. The conversation then turns to La...
2024-12-0646 min
IEA PodcastThe Realignment of British Politics & Net-Zero | IEA PodcastThe latest IEA Podcast tackles some of the most pressing issues in British politics today. Hosted by Executive Director Tom Clougherty, this episode dives into the zero-emission vehicle mandate and the broader push towards net zero, questioning the feasibility and costs of these ambitious goals. Joining Tom are Dr. Kristian Niemietz and Dr. Stephen Davies, who provide their insights into the policies shaping Britain's environmental future. The discussion then shifts to the ongoing realignment in British politics and what it means for the right and classical liberalism. With a Labour landslide that failed to ignite enthusiasm and...
2024-11-2956 min
IEA PodcastNHS & Can Elon Musk Fix Government Spending? | IEA PodcastIn this episode of the IEA podcast, we dive into Wes Streeting's proposed NHS reforms, exploring whether league tables and performance metrics can truly improve healthcare efficiency. Our guests Tom Clougherty and Kristian Niemietz discuss alternative healthcare systems from around the world, from the Netherlands' market-driven approach to Singapore's health savings accounts, examining how these models might inform NHS reform. We then turn to Elon Musk's appointment to head the new Department of Government Efficiency alongside Vivek Ramaswamy. Our panel debates whether private sector efficiency methods can work in government, drawing parallels with Musk's Twitter reforms and...
2024-11-1540 min
IEA PodcastThese REBEL Politicians Changed Modern Britain Forever | IEA Book ClubIn this IEA Book Club event, Sir Vernon Bogdanor discusses his new book "Making The Weather: Six Politicians Who Changed Modern Britain" with IEA Executive Director Tom Clougherty. Bogdanor examines how certain politicians have shaped Britain's political landscape, focusing particularly on three figures: Aneurin Bevan, Enoch Powell, and Keith Joseph. The discussion explores how these individuals challenged the prevailing consensus of their times and influenced British politics far beyond their immediate careers. The conversation delves into Bevan's creation of the NHS and its lasting impact, Powell's complex political positions beyond his controversial immigration speech, and Keith Joseph's...
2024-11-1357 min
IEA Podcast"This Isn't Going to Lead to Growth" | IEA PodcastIn this wall-to-wall budget special, Tom Clougherty, Daniel Freeman, and Dr. Kristian Niemietz break down Chancellor Rachel Reeves' first budget. They examine the major tax increases, including the significant rise in employer National Insurance contributions, changes to capital gains tax, and new measures affecting private schools. The team analyses how these changes impact Britain's economic competitiveness and discusses whether the budget's pro-growth rhetoric matches its actual contents. The discussion delves into the concerning trajectory of Britain's public finances, with both tax and spending set to be five percentage points of GDP higher than pre-pandemic levels by the...
2024-11-0142 min
The Daily TWill Labour's Budget derail the economy?It was Labour’s first Budget in 14 years and they’re back to their old playbook: tax rises and big borrowing, despite promising to deliver economic growth.Gordon and Kamal are joined in Westminster by George Osborne’s former chief of staff Rupert Harrison and Tom Clougherty from the Institute of Economic Affairs to go over Rachel Reeves’ plans and unpack the politics behind the policies.Plus, the Telegraph’s Jeremy Warner explains what higher National Insurance contributions will mean for British business.We want to hear from you! Email us at TheD...
2024-10-3031 min
IEA PodcastPublic Sector Gets a Free Pass on NI Tax Hikes, Vaping Ban & NHS Consultation | IEA PodcastJoin Reem Ibrahim, Acting Director of Communications, as she discusses the latest economic and policy developments with IEA's Executive Director Tom Clougherty and Managing Editor Daniel Freeman. The team dives into pre-budget speculation, particularly focusing on the government's plans to add National Insurance contributions to employer pension contributions - and why the public sector might be exempt from these changes. They explore how this could impact wages, benefits, and the broader economic landscape. The conversation then turns to the controversial ban on disposable vapes. The panel examines why this policy could be counterproductive, discussing how it might...
2024-10-2635 min
IEA PodcastIncoming Tax Hikes, Thought Crime in Britain & the Next Generation of Liberals | IEA PodcastIn this episode of the IEA Podcast, Tom Clougherty, Harrison Griffiths, and Dr. Kristian Niemietz dive into the upcoming Autumn budget and the potential £40 billion tax increases. They discuss the implications of employer National Insurance contributions and the broader impact on workers, while also touching on capital gains tax and the challenges of taxing different forms of income. The conversation then shifts to a concerning case in Bournemouth, where a man was convicted for silently praying near an abortion clinic, sparking a debate about freedom of thought and expression in the UK. The panel examines the implications o...
2024-10-1844 min
IEA PodcastThe Thatcher Legacy & The Future of British Politics with Charles Moore | In ConversationIn this new episode in the 'In Conversation' series, Charles Moore, Baron Moore of Etchingham and Member of the House of Lords, sits down with Tom Clougherty, Executive Director of the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA), to discuss the current state of British politics and the legacy of Margaret Thatcher. Moore, the acclaimed biographer of Thatcher and former editor of The Spectator and The Telegraph, offers unique insights into the challenges facing modern conservatism and draws intriguing parallels between today's political landscape and the era of Thatcher's rise to power. Throughout the discussion, Moore delves into a...
2024-10-141h 05
IEA PodcastWhy Britain is Losing its Best and Brightest, Employment Rights & Hayek's Nobel Prize | IEA PodcastIn this episode of the IEA Podcast, we dive into the Adam Smith Institute's new "millionaire tracker" report, which suggests Britain is losing millionaires at an alarming rate. Maxwell Marlow, director of Research and Education at ASI, discusses the potential economic impact and reasons behind this trend, including productivity stagnation, high tax burdens, and an anti-prosperity culture. The conversation explores the broader implications for job creation, investment, and tax revenue. The podcast then turns to the government's newly announced Employment Rights legislation. The panel, including Dr. Kristian Niemietz and host Tom Clougherty, examines the potential consequences of...
2024-10-1141 min
IEA PodcastEconomic Freedom vs. Collectivism: Can Conservatives Save Liberty in Britain?Join the Institute of Economic Affairs for a panel discussion on "The Torch of Liberty: Can the Conservative Party win back the young?" at the 2024 Conservative Party Conference. Hosted by Reem Ibrahim, Acting Director of Communications at the IEA, this engaging session features Lord David Frost, Conservative Member of the House of Lords, Tom Clougherty, IEA Executive Director, and Dr. Christopher Snowdon, IEA Head of Lifestyle Economics. The panel explores the crucial question of whether the Conservative Party can rediscover its love for liberty and appeal to younger voters. Our speakers delve into topics such as economic...
2024-10-091h 14
IEA PodcastBoomer vs Zoomer: Exposing Britain's Age DivideDive into the pressing issue of intergenerational inequality with the Institute of Economic Affairs' panel from the 2024 Conservative Party Conference. Hosted by IEA Executive Director Tom Clougherty, this discussion features insights from a diverse group of experts including Jack Ranking MP, Matthew Lesh of Freshwater Strategy, Andrew Griffith MP, and Reem Ibrahim, the IEA's Acting Director of Communications. The panel tackles the challenges facing young people in the UK, from housing affordability and economic opportunities to the brain drain and welfare system concerns. Our speakers explore how conservative principles can address these issues, debating topics such as...
2024-10-081h 20
IEA PodcastConservative Optimism, UK's Energy Emergency & Shadowy Conferences | IEA PodcastIn this episode of the IEA Podcast, host Tom Clougherty and guests Daniel Freeman and Dr. Kristian Niemietz cover a range of topics: the closure of Britain's last coal-fired power station, the recent Conservative Party Conference, and the Mont Pelerin Society meeting in New Delhi. These discussions offer insights into energy policy, political strategy, and the future of classical liberal thought. The conversation begins with an analysis of the UK's energy landscape following the shutdown of its final coal power plant. The team explores the implications for Britain's economic competitiveness, the challenges of transitioning to renewable energy...
2024-10-0448 min
IEA PodcastFreebies and Scandals: Can Starmer Unite the Party at Conference?In this episode of the IEA Podcast, host Reem Ibrahim is joined by Matthew Lesh and Tom Clougherty to discuss the recent Labour Party Conference, the growing issue of long-term sickness benefits in the UK, and the influential "Foundations: Why Britain has Stagnated" report. The conversation kicks off with insights into the Labour Party's current positioning and challenges as they prepare for a potential return to power, including the party's struggle to articulate a clear vision for governance beyond simply not being the Conservatives. The discussion then shifts to the concerning trend of increasing long-term sickness benefit...
2024-09-3046 min
IEA PodcastJames Cleverly MP Reveals His Vision for the UK | In ConversationNote: The Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) does not endorse or support any political candidate or party. This video is for educational purposes only. In this new In Conversation event, The Rt Hon James Cleverly MP, Conservative Party Home Secretary and leadership candidate, sits down with Tom Clougherty, Executive Director of the Institute of Economic Affairs, to discuss his vision for the future of the Conservative Party and the UK. Cleverly outlines his Thatcherite economic philosophy, emphasising the need for free markets, lower taxes, and reduced regulation to drive economic growth and prosperity. Throughout the...
2024-09-271h 10
IEA Podcast"Scrapping" the NHS & the Gender Pay Gap Myth | IEA PodcastIn this episode of the IEA Podcast, we delve into three critical topics shaping the UK's economic and social landscape this week. First, we explore the IEA's new publication "Denationalisation of Healthcare" with author Dr. Kristian Niemietz. The discussion examines the potential benefits of transitioning from the NHS to a social health insurance system, addressing concerns about disruption and emphasising the importance of patient choice and competition among providers. Next, we turn our attention to the Bank of England's recent monetary policy decisions. Our panel, featuring Tom Clougherty and Kristian Niemietz, analyses the implications of keeping interest...
2024-09-2152 min
IEA PodcastNHS Crisis: Is Labour's Plan a Band-Aid on a Bullet Wound? | IEA PodcastIn this episode of the IEA Podcast, host Reem Ibrahim is joined by Tom Clougherty, Executive Director, and Kristian Niemietz, Editorial Director, to discuss pressing issues in UK policy. The conversation kicks off with an analysis of the Darzi report, which exposes deep-rooted problems within the NHS and the government's response to these challenges. The guests explore the limitations of the report and the need for more radical reforms to truly address the health service's issues. The discussion then shifts to the Labour government's controversial proposal to ban junk food advertising before 9:00 PM. Our experts examine the...
2024-09-1344 min
IEA PodcastThe Oasis & Kamala Harris 'Vibes-Based' Politics, Trade Unions & the Housing Crisis | IEA PodcastIn this episode of the IEA Podcast, join host Reem Ibrahim as she engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Kristian Niemietz and Tom Clougherty on pressing issues shaping contemporary political discourse. The trio delves into the concept of 'vibes-based' politics, exploring how superficial appeal often overshadows substantive policy discussions, particularly in areas like price controls and ticketing regulations. The conversation then shifts to the complex world of trade unions, examining their historical role, current challenges, and potential future directions. Drawing from a newly published book by Len Shackleton, the panel offers fresh perspectives on union dynamics in...
2024-09-0652 min
IEA PodcastSmoking Ban in Beer Gardens: The Death of Personal Freedom? | IEA PodcastIn this episode of the IEA Podcast, host Reem Ibrahim is joined by Kristian Niemietz and Tom Clougherty to dissect recent political developments through a classical liberal lens. The panel critically examines Labour's controversial plan to ban smoking in outdoor areas, including pub beer gardens, questioning the justification and potential consequences of such nanny state interventions. They also delve into the implications of the Next equal pay dispute, highlighting the disconnect between economic reasoning and legal judgments in employment tribunals. The conversation takes a broader turn as the guests explore the shifting landscape of political ideologies. They...
2024-08-3037 min
IEA PodcastRiots, Rates, and Market Fears: Are UK Riots a Wake-Up Call? | IEA PodcastIn this episode of the IEA Podcast, hosts Tom Clougherty and Matthew Lesh are joined by Andrew Lilico, Executive Director & Principal of Europe Economics, to discuss the recent riots across the UK, monetary policy shifts, and financial market volatility. The conversation begins with an in-depth analysis of the factors behind the riots, exploring whether they reveal deeper issues in British society or if they're simply a result of opportunistic behaviour. The panel debates the role of social media, immigration policies, and the effectiveness of law enforcement in handling such situations. The discussion then shifts to the recent...
2024-08-0936 min
IEA Podcast£20 Billion Black Hole, Junior Doctor's Pay & Minimum Wage | IEA PodcastIn this episode of the IEA Podcast, we dive deep into the recent £20 billion "black hole" reported in the UK's public finances. Our expert panel, featuring Professor Len Shackleton, Editorial & Research Fellow, alongside hosts Matthew Lesh and Tom Clougherty, dissects the reality behind these figures and what they mean for the country's economic outlook. The discussion explores how this financial shortfall might impact future government spending and policy decisions. The conversation then shifts to the contentious issue of junior doctors' pay and the broader implications for public sector wages. Our panel examines the recent pay settlements, their p...
2024-08-0235 min
IEA PodcastLabour's Shocking Plan to Revolutionise UK Housing Crisis | IEA PodcastIn this episode of the IEA Podcast, Tom Clougherty and Matthew Lesh are joined by Sam Dumitriu, Head of Policy at Britain Remade, to discuss Labour's ambitious plans for housing, infrastructure, and economic growth. The conversation delves into the party's strategy to reform the planning system, restore housing targets, and streamline infrastructure projects. Sam provides insights into the challenges faced by previous governments and explores whether Labour's approach can overcome the long-standing obstacles to development in the UK. The discussion covers a range of topics, including the impact of NIMBYism, the complexities of the planning process, and...
2024-07-1243 min
IEA PodcastUK Election: What's Next for British Politics? | IEA PodcastIn this episode of the IEA Podcast, host Tom Clougherty and co-host Matthew Lesh are joined by Dr. Michael Turner, a pollster, strategist, and fellow at the Adam Smith Institute, to dissect the recent UK General Election results. The conversation delves into Labour's victory, exploring the nuances behind their substantial majority and the implications for their policy agenda. The panel examines the challenges facing Keir Starmer's leadership and the potential obstacles in implementing promised reforms. The discussion also turns to the Conservative Party's defeat, analysing the factors contributing to their loss and the party's future direction. The...
2024-07-0537 min
IEA PodcastUK Election: What's Next for British Politics? | IEA PodcastIn this episode of the IEA Podcast, host Tom Clougherty and co-host Matthew Lesh are joined by Dr. Michael Turner to analyse the recent UK General Election results.
The discussion covers Labour's victory and its implications, the challenges facing Keir Starmer's leadership, the Conservative Party's defeat and future direction, and the rise of Reform UK. The panel explores the changing dynamics of voter behaviour, the shifting political landscape, and the potential consequences for policy-making in the years ahead. Going beyond shallow political commentary, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the election's outcomes and the big ideas...
2024-07-0537 min
IEA PodcastAnalysing Farage on Ukraine | IEA PodcastIn this episode of the IEA Podcast, host Tom Clougherty and Matthew Lesh are joined by Daniel Freeman to discuss three timely and controversial topics. They begin by examining Nigel Farage's recent comments on Ukraine and NATO expansion, exploring the nuances of the situation and how it's perceived differently in the UK versus the US. The conversation then shifts to the potential implementation of road pricing in the UK, weighing its economic benefits against political challenges. Finally, the panel dives into a discussion on whether neoliberalism leads to populism, inspired by a recent Financial Times article. They...
2024-06-2838 minIEA PodcastAnalysing Farage on Ukraine | IEA PodcastIn this episode of the IEA Podcast, Tom Clougherty and Matthew Lesh are joined by Daniel Freeman to explore three controversial topics: Nigel Farage's comments on Ukraine and NATO expansion, the potential implementation of road pricing in the UK, and the relationship between neoliberalism and populism.
The panel offers nuanced analysis and challenges conventional wisdom, examining these complex issues from a classical liberal perspective. By delving deeper than typical political commentary, the hosts aim to provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the big ideas and foundational principles that underpin these current debates.
2024-06-2838 min
IEA PodcastSir Vince Cable & Lib Dems Debate the Controversial 'Orange Book': 20 Years LaterThe Institute of Economic Affairs recently hosted a Book Club event reflecting on "The Orange Book" published by the Liberal Democrats 20 years prior in 2004. The event was hosted by Tom Clougherty, Executive Director of the IEA, and featured three of the original authors - Mark Oaten (Former MP & Home Affairs Spokesperson), Baroness Susan Kramer (Former Minister of State for Transport), and Sir Vince Cable (Former Leader of the Liberal Democrats). The panelists discussed the origins and impact of The Orange Book, which aimed to reclaim economic liberalism within the Liberal Democrat party at the time. They reflected...
2024-06-241h 36IEA PodcastSir Vince Cable & Lib Dems Debate the Controversial 'Orange Book': 20 Years LaterThe Institute of Economic Affairs recently hosted a Book Club event reflecting on "The Orange Book" published by the Liberal Democrats 20 years prior in 2004. The event was hosted by Tom Clougherty, Executive Director of the IEA, and featured three of the original authors - Mark Oaten (Former MP & Home Affairs Spokesperson), Baroness Susan Kramer (Former Minister of State for Transport), and Sir Vince Cable (Former Leader of the Liberal Democrats).
The panelists discussed the origins and impact of The Orange Book, which aimed to reclaim economic liberalism within the Liberal Democrat party at the time. They reflected...
2024-06-241h 36IEA PodcastElection 2024: Unpacking Party Manifestos | IEA PodcastIn this new and improved episode of the IEA Podcast, hosts Tom Clougherty and Matthew Lesh as host and co-host, they are joined by Kristian Niemietz, IEA Editorial Director, to dissect the recently released party manifestos for the upcoming general election.
The team delves into the parties' approaches to tax and spend, planning systems, the National Health Service, and regulation in general. They critically examine the similarities and differences between the major parties' proposals, highlighting the lack of substantial new ideas and the risk-averse nature of most manifestos.
The discussion reveals the challenges in implementing...
2024-06-2141 min
IEA PodcastThe Myth of America's Free Market Healthcare | IEA Book ClubThe Institute of Economic Affairs hosted a Book Club event featuring Michael F. Cannon, Director of Health Policy Studies at the Cato Institute, to discuss his book "Recovery: A Guide to Reforming the U.S. Health System." The event was moderated by Tom Clougherty, IEA Executive Director. Cannon provided an in-depth analysis of the U.S. healthcare system, challenging the common perception that it is a free market system. He argued that the U.S. has every form of socialised medicine found in other countries, from employer-sponsored insurance to government programs like Medicare and Medicaid. Cannon advocated...
2024-06-171h 09
IEA PodcastThe Future of British Politics: In Conversation with Simon HefferIn this new Institute of Economic Affairs "In Conversation" interview, Tom Clougherty sits down with renowned conservative historian and commentator Simon Heffer. Heffer pulls no punches in his scathing critique of contemporary Conservative leadership and the party's civil war over Europe. He explores major challenges Britain faces - an aging population, pressures on the welfare state, and the need for pro-growth economic reforms. Heffer calls for reining in corporatism and state overreach while incentivizing hard work and self-reliance. He advocates transitioning from a welfare state to a "welfare society" rooted in Victorian values of self-help, making this a must-watch...
2024-05-221h 17
IEA PodcastCutting Through Red Tape | IEA PodcastOn this IEA Podcast episode, host Matthew Lesh engages Tom Clougherty, the Institute of Economic Affairs' Executive Director, in a thought-provoking discussion centered around the government's recent efforts to cut red tape. They dive deep into the 10-point plan announced, which includes measures like issuing new regulations only when "absolutely necessary" and imposing stronger growth duties on regulators. While acknowledging these as positive steps, Clougherty argues that they fail to truly reshape Britain's regulatory landscape fundamentally. The conversation explores the origins of the modern regulatory state, the institutional and cultural forces driving over-regulation, and the structural reforms needed, such...
2024-05-1734 min
IEA PodcastCritical Thinking: CEO Pay, Diversity Quotas & Peer Review BiasesJoin us for an IEA Book Club discussion with Alex Edmans, Professor of Finance at London Business School and acclaimed author, as he delves deep into the themes of his latest book, "May Contain Lies: How Stories, Statistics and Studies Exploit Our Biases - And What We Can Do About It". Hosted by Tom Clougherty, Executive Director, this event promises to unravel the intricacies of bias in education, peer review, and data interpretation, offering invaluable insights.Alex outlines the value of questioning and curiosity in education, challenging conventional methods of learning and advocating for fostering independent...
2024-04-291h 07
IEA PodcastBitcoin, Libertarianism, Milei and the Future of Tax | Dominic FrisbyIn our latest In Conversation event, we had the pleasure of hosting Dominic Frisby, a multifaceted finance commentator, comedian, and author. Frisby delved into topics ranging from libertarianism and finance to the impact of Bitcoin and the future of tax, offering insightful perspectives. Joined by IEA's Executive Director, Tom Clougherty, Frisby shared valuable insights drawn from his extensive experience. Explore how decentralised technologies and cryptocurrencies are transforming economic paradigms, and gain insights into the potential effects of digital nomadism on government tax revenue. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other...
2024-04-241h 11
IEA PodcastHow the Spring Budget Affects the UK EconomyJoin Harrison Griffiths and IEA Executive Director Tom Clougherty as they dissect the recent Spring Budget. From National Insurance cuts to new taxes on vaping, gain insights into what went well, what went wrong, and the underlying structural issues in the UK economy. Explore the economic challenges within the planning system and energy sector, uncovering bureaucratic hurdles and high costs hindering growth and innovation. Delve into the intertwined challenges of fiscal policy and the size of the state, addressing the need for fundamental reforms. Don't miss out on valuable insights into Britain's economic landscape and the path forward.
2024-03-0841 min
IEA PodcastAre We Ready for Disaster? In Conversation with Dr Stephen DaviesJoin IEA Executive Director Tom Clougherty and Senior Education Fellow Dr. Stephen Davies for an insightful discussion on global catastrophic risks. With over 30 years of educational experience and a deep grasp of political and economic dynamics, Steve offers valuable insights into potential threats to humanity.In this conversation, Steve delves into his new book, "Apocalypse Next," published by the IEA, which explores global catastrophic risks and their implications. Drawing on extensive research, Steve challenges conventional thinking on risk assessment, the state's role, and technological progress.From nuclear war to solar flares, Steve highlights...
2024-02-211h 02
The CapitalistBreaking down the BudgetIt's that special time of year again when the Chancellor delivers a Budget, before commentators, policy wonks and political opponents rush to tear it apart in the ensuing days.In that noblest of British traditions, we invited our editor-in-chief, Robert Colvile and the Centre for Policy Studies tax and policy guru, Tom Clougherty, for a special Budget edition podcast.Stay informed with CapX's unmissable daily briefings from the heart of Westminster. Go to capx.co to subscribe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2023-03-1731 minThe CapitalistWhy is tax so taxing?Few political questions are as basic, or as pressing, as how a government raises the money it spends – and the last year in British politics has provided ample examples of the political pitfalls of tax reform.In principle a good tax system should be a winning combination of fairness, efficiency, smooth revenue raising and growth-enhancing incentives. The UK does reasonably well on some of these fronts, but overall our system is a burdensome, convoluted mess that is ripe for reform.So if Jeremy Hunt really wants us to have the 'most competitive tax sy...
2023-02-0334 minThe CapitalistThird time lucky?Typical isn’t it – you wait ages for a new Prime Minister and then three come along in six months. Rishi Sunak has taken command of a party that’s been through a bruising ideological battle and taken a battering in the polls as a result.He inherits an economy that’s in even worse shape than it was when Liz Truss took charge, which, to be clear, was already very bad.So where does he go from here? Will we see a return to the economic orthodoxy Liz Truss was reacting against, or will...
2022-10-2834 min
The DeductionThe UK’s Tax Battles, Part One: How We Got HereIf you’ve been following taxes closely these past few months, you know that the UK is currently undergoing a drastic change.This episode of The Deduction is part one in our ongoing coverage of the UK’s tax battles. Jesse chats with Tom Clougherty, research director and head of tax at the Centre for Policy Studies in London. Tom talks us through what all went down in the UK this fall: from the leadership elections to the countless U-turns the new prime minister has made to try and reform the country’s tax code.Shortl...
2022-10-1835 minThe DeductionThe UK’s Tax Battles, Part One: How We Got HereIf you’ve been following taxes closely these past few months, you know that the UK is currently undergoing a drastic change.This episode of The Deduction is part one in our ongoing coverage of the UK’s tax battles. Jesse chats with Tom Clougherty, research director and head of tax at the Centre for Policy Studies in London. Tom talks us through what all went down in the UK this fall: from the leadership elections to the countless U-turns the new prime minister has made to try and reform the country’s tax code.Shortl...
2022-10-1835 minThe CapitalistBoris got doneJust last week Boris Johnson was bestriding the world stage, joking about showing his pecs to Putin at the G7 and Nato summit. Today he is Prime Minister in name only, having reluctantly agreed to leave office after more than 50 of his ministers resigned.It's an ignominious ending to a dramatic premiership, In just over 1000 days, Boris Johnson secured a historic election victory, persuading many to vote Conservative for the first time and defeated a dangerous Labour leader. He took Britain out of the EU, he presided over the pandemic, almost dying himself in the process, a...
2022-07-0823 minThe CapitalistOff the rails?As if the British economy didn't have enough problems with soaring inflation, swathes of the country literally ground to a half this week thanks to massive industrial action from 40,000 rail workers. Like most of us, RMT members are feeling the pinch as prices outstrip their wages and passenger numbers have still yet to recover from their pre-Covid levels. But does that really justify a strike? And is this a sign that the UK is going 'back to the 1970s'?To discuss all that, John and Alys welcomed Tom Clougherty the Head of Tax at our parent org...
2022-06-2438 min
The Pin FactoryCovid Purgatory, Tax Competitiveness and US ElectionsIn this episode of The Pin Factory, the ASI's Matthew Lesh is joined by Daniel Pryor, Head of Programmes at the Adam Smith Institute and Tom Clougherty, Head of Tax at the Centre for Policy Studies. They discuss the latest developments in the UK's response to Covid-19, how to improve our tax system and what the US election results could mean for the free market movement.
Guests:
Matthew Lesh (Head of Research, Adam Smith Institute)
Daniel Pryor (Head of Programmes, Adam Smith Institute)
Tom Clougherty (Head of Tax, Centre for Policy Studies)
...
2020-10-2255 min
Cato AudioAugust 2016August 2016 featuring Emma Ashford, Tom Clougherty, Nadine Strossen, Flemming Rose, William Ruger, Hon. William H. Pryor, Hon. Blaine Luetkemeyer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2016-08-0259 min