Universal Credit and ‘managed migration’

by | Sep 14, 2018

Universal Credit can no longer be seen as a benign attempt to simplify the benefits system. Universal Credit can no longer be seen as a benign attempt to simplify the benefits system. As Justin Welby said, “It was supposed to make it simpler and more efficient. It has...

Does the truth prosper among you? A question for our own time

by | Sep 7, 2018

“‘What is truth?’, said Jesting Pilate and would not stay for an answer.” Francis Bacon’s enduring comment on the frustrated Roman functionary, adjudicating the quar “‘What is truth?’, said Jesting Pilate and would not stay for an answer.” Francis Bacon’s enduring...

Why we don’t need centrist politics

by | Sep 2, 2018

At a time when politics is becoming increasingly polarised and antagonistic, it is easy to understand why well-meaning people could find the idea of centrist politics attractive. At a time when politics is becoming increasingly polarised and antagonistic, it is easy...

Pirates, emperors, and moral authority

by | Aug 18, 2018

The term ‘whataboutery’  had not been coined in the 5th century, but The term ‘whataboutery’  had not been coined in the 5th century, but no doubt if Augustine of Hippo were writing now, somebody would accuse him of it. Nevertheless, as outlandish...

Johnson, Bannon, burqas and a struggling UK state

by | Aug 12, 2018

A leading UK politician’s refusal to apologise for stoking anti-Muslim prejudice has made the headlines. A leading UK politician’s refusal to apologise for stoking anti-Muslim prejudice has made the headlines. Meanwhile public services are struggling and some local...