The Intelligence from The Economist Sailing into the wind: Boris Johnson
Oct 6, 2020
Boris Johnson, the former Prime Minister of Britain, discusses his government’s navigation through the stormy seas of Brexit and the pandemic, revealing the pressures to secure trade deals and maintain public favor. Meanwhile, Abiy Ahmed, Prime Minister of Ethiopia, highlights the unrest faced by the Oromo ethnic group during the Irrecha festival, bringing attention to their unmet reform promises. The episode also touches on the cultural significance of the betel nut in China, amidst rising health concerns.
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Conservative Conference Purpose
- The Conservative Party conference serves as a platform to reset its agenda and reassure members.
- This is particularly crucial for leaders facing criticism, like Boris Johnson.
Johnson's Speech Focus
- Boris Johnson's speech will focus on a "green industrial revolution" to stimulate the economy.
- He will also address Brexit and the coronavirus pandemic.
UK Pandemic Response Criticism
- The UK's pandemic response has faced criticism due to high death tolls and political chaos.
- The recent test-and-trace system error highlights the perceived lack of grip in the government's handling of the crisis.