Readers Question: How Long do Recessions last? There is no exact answer. Recessions can last for varying time lengths depending on the causes and also the response of governments and consumers. If recessions are caused by a tightening of monetary policy (higher interest rates to reduce inflation), then it tends to be easier to get …
A big issue is how net migration is affecting the National Health Service. Does an influx of migrants place greater strain on the NHS? Is migration a convenient excuse for the more long-term issues facing the NHS? To what extent do migrants work for the NHS? If we cut migration levels would that affect taxation …
A devaluation (depreciation) occurs when the exchange rate falls in value. This causes exports to be cheaper and imports to be more expensive. In theory, it can help increase economic growth, though it may cause inflation. In theory, a devaluation will cause the following to happen: The price of UK exports will be lower in …
Source ONS | NTV A possible unit 4 A Level question this summer could be: Discuss the impact of a fall in public sector investment on the UK economy? The graph shows a fall in public sector investment from 3.5% of GDP in 2008 to 1.5% in 2011. This means cuts of approximately £30bn a …
It is getting close to the summer exams, and one reader asked if I had any tips for memorising information. Some things that worked for me Read then close book. I used to read a book, then close and try to remember was is in the closed book. If I couldn’t remember, I’d check and …
If a large firm / industry becomes unprofitable and appears in terminal decline, what should the government do? If the firm goes bankrupt, it will lead to the loss of thousands of jobs, and negatively affect the areas where the firm is based. See: Problems of industrial decline. This creates a strong economic and political …
At this time of the year, my students are preparing for their exams with a mixture of trepidation, confidence, resignation, hope or fear. The best way to prepare is to simply do one thing at a time. Concentrate on making small improvements and importantly keep practising past papers. Students who just do a bit of …
Readers question: Will a sustained recovery in the UK lead to inflation? A sustained economic recovery could lead to inflation. If economic growth is above the long run trend rate for a prolonged period, if demand grows faster than productivity, then in that scenario we are likely to see rising inflation (rise in the cost …