Quite right! Q&A: Is it time to abolish the Treasury?
Nov 21, 2025
The hosts delve into the relevance of the Treasury, critiquing its culture and the phenomenon of 'Treasury brain'. They discuss the insular nature of the 'Treasury boys' and debate the need for stronger personalities to reform it. A bold suggestion arises: could Piers Morgan invigorate the BBC? The conversation takes a twist as they analyze the rise of 'Mar-a-Lago face' in US politics and reveal Britain's own fashionable quirks, from Ozempic-thinned MPs to the Labour 'power bob'. It's a lively exploration of politics and its evolving aesthetics!
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Treasury As Perpetual Sceptic
- The Treasury functions as the perpetual sceptic that punctures policy enthusiasm and bans waste.
- That role makes it strong at guarding public funds but weak as a growth-driving powerhouse.
What 'Treasury Brain' Means
- "Treasury brain" describes a short-term, penny‑pinching mindset that undervalues long-term investments like infrastructure.
- It becomes more dominant when ministers lack a clear, independent vision to push back.
The 'Treasury Boys' Archetype
- 'Treasury boys' are a distinct civil‑service archetype: Oxbridge‑trained, confident, and inclined to house‑train new ministers.
- Their worldview shapes policy choices and pressures ministers to conform to Treasury thinking.