Impacts of Austerity, Brexit, and COVID-19 on Britain

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The chapter explores the repercussions of government policies on austerity, the Brexit referendum, and the COVID-19 pandemic on Britain's economy, society, and overall well-being. It discusses the surge in food bank usage, the economic challenges faced by local businesses, and the divisive aftermath of Brexit. The episode reflects on the uncertain future and challenges ahead for Britain amidst ongoing political emergencies.

On July 4th Britain will have a general election, one in which is widely expected to result in dramatic losses for the ruling Conservative party. If so, it would bring to an end 14 years of Tory rule. It’s been a turbulent period; the twin catastrophes of Brexit and Covid, set to the grinding and gloomy mood music of the 2008 financial crash. The Economist’s Andy Miller travels up and down the country, to the towns and cities shaped by these events, to get a sense of how Britain is feeling.

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