Last month, we discussed our topic for October and settled on the question of the role of the central bank. I'd like to keep our conversation focussed on the UK, but obviously lessons can be learned from overseas that are relevant to policy choices over here. Relevant questions might include:
- Has Bank of England's (BoE) "operational independence" rendered the government too weak?
- What mandate(s) should the BoE have?
- How could a proposed Money Creation Committee be granted effective influence, given the likelihood of institutional resistance?
- How should governors of the BoE be chosen?
- How should the research arm of the BoE influence its decisions?
If you have time and/or feel the need to brush up on this agenda, you could do worse than listen to Leah Downey promoting her new book (“Our Money: Monetary Policy as if Democracy Matters”) in interview with Mark Blyth, here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dqRu6wTwqUM)
Come along to help us engage with these issues. No expertise required - questions are as welcome as answers!
Looking forward to seeing you there!
~ Ian, Positive Money Brighton
