Out of shape: Taking the pulse of the UK economy

The 'out of shape' UK economy: A case for change

Article

Britain is a successful country. But although our economy is succeeding at the top, it faces deep troubles below the surface. The evidence presented in the report challenges the repeated view of chancellors of the Exchequer that, since the EU referendum, Britain is ‘the strongest major advanced economy in the world’. In fact, it reveals fundamental problems that can no longer be left unaddressed.

The UK’s economy is not working for the majority of the population. The geographical divide in this country is emphasised by the fact that GDP per head has not recovered to its pre-crisis peak anywhere but within London and the South East. Growth is not being fairly shared, and average household disposable income has not increased since 2005. In addition, the economy is made vulnerable by low productivity, too little investment, and the unknown risk from capital markets that have not been fully re-regulated.

{{ getQuote("id=137") }}

Brexit forces us to face up to this diagnosis, and work towards an economy that delivers what it should for the British people. It is for this reason that IPPR launched its major new programme: the IPPR Commission on Economic Justice. Over the next two years, the Commission will conduct a comprehensive examination of the British economy.

{{ getQuote("id=138") }}

Related items

  1. View of Bank of England, Royal Exchange, and Duke of Wellington equestrian statue (1844) with skyscrapers and construction in background.

    Navigating in the fog: Why the OBR should hold its nerve on the productivity forecast

    The fiscal watchdog is under pressure to downgrade its forecast, costing the chancellor billions – but this would be premature.
  2. A busy bus full of people of all ages. An older couple smile at a younger woman with a baby in a pushchair

    Everyday concerns: What people want from transport

    Transport has a key role to play in achieving the UK government's missions and improving lives. 
  3. An unrecognisable woman playing a slot machine in a social club

    Reforming gambling taxation: How to lift half a million children out of poverty

    A key priority for the government’s upcoming child poverty strategy should be to remove the two-child limit and scrap the household benefit cap.