Jezza had a last throw of the dice and money to spend. He would blow it on tax cuts and let public services die
It’s a looking-glass world. Up is down. Black is white. War is peace. Just a few months ago we were told the UK economy was in a desperate state: no room for tax cuts. Just more of the same. Suck it up. But in the last few weeks we’ve been getting noises off. Anonymous briefings from Treasury ministers. All is well. Things have never been better. Thanks to the diligence of the Tories, we can all expect some more pocket money in the autumn statement.
If you’re confused by this, then spare a thought for Jeremy Hunt. The chancellor who was never meant to be chancellor. The chancellor who knows next to nothing about macroeconomics. Just think. A man of almost limitless ambition – he twice thought he would make a good prime minister – but who never once aspired to be chancellor. Because even he knew he would be hopeless at it. A glimpse of self-awareness. The entrepreneur who knows how to create a small business. Start with a big one.
Depraved New World by John Crace is published by Guardian Faber, price £16.99. To support the Guardian and Observer, order your copy and save 18% at guardianbookshop.com. Delivery charges may apply.
