Economist Podcasts Nobody’s fuel: Britain’s shortages
Sep 30, 2021
Duncan Weldon, The Economist's British economics correspondent, discusses the UK's ongoing fuel shortages and the factors behind the panic, such as Brexit and the pandemic. Meanwhile, Greg Karlstrom, The Economist's Middle East correspondent, reflects on Tunisia's political landscape, particularly the significance of its first female prime minister amidst ongoing democracy challenges. The conversation also touches on India's societal shifts, as micro-stay hotels gain traction, offering privacy for unmarried couples in a changing cultural landscape.
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UK Shortages
- Britain is experiencing shortages of various goods, from milkshakes at McDonald's to chicken at Nando's.
- This week, the shortage has extended to petrol, causing long queues and frustration among drivers.
Shortage Predictions
- Despite Prime Minister Boris Johnson's assurances, industry experts predict shortages could persist for months.
- Public anxiety is rising as petrol isn't the only item in short supply; building materials, computer chips, and even certain beers are becoming scarce.
Public Reaction
- Duncan Weldon, The Economist's British economics correspondent, describes the public's reaction to the shortages as 'frazzled'.
- He humorously refers to his own topping up of his car's fuel as 'dynamic personal inventory management' rather than panic buying.