In Focus
In July 2020, as part of its economic response to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Government announced an immediate cut to stamp duty on residential properties in England and Northern Ireland until 31 March 2021. This article examines the bill which would provide for this change.
In Focus
A range of data is available to measure child poverty. This article looks at official statistics on children in low income households with someone in work. It then considers Government policy in the area, and also discusses the possible impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Child poverty in working households is the subject of an oral question in the House of Lords on 15 July 2020.
Research Briefing
The Finance Bill is a government bill intended to give the tax measures announced in the spring budget 2020 lasting statutory effect.
Research Briefing
The bill would provide the Government with new delegated powers to update or amend the UK’s regulatory framework for medical devices and for human and veterinary medicines. Much of the current UK regulatory framework is based on EU regulations and directives. It would also allow a new information system to be introduced covering data on medical devices and would consolidate and expand enforcement provisions.
In Focus
This article provides statistics on the impact of the coronavirus lockdown on high street retail sales between March and June 2020. It also summarises the debate over the Government’s package of economic support for retailers, such as the coronavirus job retention scheme and a range of other loans and grants.
Current Affairs Digest
This article summarises a selection of commentaries on monetary financing, which is the central bank creating money on which interest is not paid. It sets out the pros and cons of the monetary financing approach, and discusses proposals for mitigating some of the risks involved. It also considers arguments that the Bank of England’s existing policy of quantitative easing (QE) is a form of monetary financing.
In Focus
A universal basic income (or UBI) is a periodic cash payment unconditionally delivered to all on an individual basis, without a means-test or work requirement. This article examines arguments for and against introducing a UBI, particularly in light of the economic impacts of the coronavirus outbreak.
In Focus
While Covid-19 is expected to have a negative impact on UK tourism overall, the number of domestic tourists in the UK is expected to rise. This briefing considers the debate regarding the potential impact of increases in domestic tourism on seaside resorts.
In Focus
The Government’s furlough scheme helps companies retain staff during the pandemic. This article considers proposals for a similar system covering physical premises, whereby the Government would help pay rent and services charges for companies in certain sectors. Similar schemes operate in Denmark and Sweden. The Government has not responded directly to the proposals, which are the subject of an oral question in the House of Lords on 15 June 2020.
Research Briefing
The Corporate Insolvency and Governance Bill is a Government bill being fast-tracked through Parliament with the intention of reducing the burden on businesses and providing flexibility and breathing space to keep them operating during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Research Briefing
A summary of proposals for policies to reshape the economy following the coronavirus pandemic. This includes recommendations for how the economy could be "fairer" and "cleaner".
Research Briefing
Coronavirus (Covid-19) has had major implications for the UK economy. There have been debates about a number of possible changes to economic policy when the UK enters the recovery phase. These include: possible major reforms to fiscal policy; whether the Government should facilitate the reallocation of jobs and capital away from the hardest hit sectors of the economy; what measures could be taken if the virus exacerbates inequalities in the UK; and whether the recovery is an opportunity to bring about fundamental changes in the economy and society.
In Focus
The Covid-19 pandemic has seen an increase in complaints of price gouging, with some household items being sold at inflated prices. This article summarises the campaign to combat price gouging and the existing powers available to achieve this in consumer law.
Research Briefing
A range of international bodies and coalitions are responding to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Research Briefing
The Government has set up a scheme to compensate those affected by the Windrush scandal. This briefing explains the scheme and considers criticisms of it so far.
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