Best of the Spectator
Coffee House Shots: were we right to lock down? Michael Gove vs Toby Young
Mar 22, 2025
Michael Gove, former cabinet minister and current editor of The Spectator, joins Toby Young, a vocal lockdown critic, to discuss the UK's COVID-19 lockdown measures. They debate whether the lockdown was justifiable or a breach of civil liberties, exploring the ethical dilemmas involved. The conversation also dives into Sweden's no-lockdown approach and its outcomes. With humor, they touch on the quirky debate about Scotch eggs as substantial meals, highlighting the absurdities of pandemic regulations.
31:09
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Quick takeaways
- The government's decision to impose a nationwide lockdown was influenced by urgent healthcare concerns and alarming predictions about COVID-19's impact.
- Critics argue that the lockdown infringed on civil liberties and that alternative strategies, like Sweden's, warrant further examination for efficacy.
Deep dives
Economic Crises and Dividend Stability
The discussion highlights the resilience of investment strategies in navigating various economic crises over the decades, from the 1970s oil crisis to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the tumultuous financial landscape marked by significant downturns like the 2008 crash, successful management saw Alliance Witton consistently increasing dividends to shareholders every year since 1888. This demonstrates a key strategy whereby maintaining shareholder trust is prioritized even during economic turbulence. The ability to manage around £5 billion in assets reflects a commitment to long-term stability and investor confidence amidst uncertainty.
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