The Chancellors: How to handle an economic crisis

Having ceded control of monetary policy to the Bank of England in 1997, the Treasury has spent the past 25 years reasserting its grip over Whitehall, and not without controversy. In a little over a decade it has responded to two once-in-a-lifetime economic crises, overseen a controversial period of austerity, and played a key role in the Brexit debate. The Treasury – and the Chancellors who have led it – have played a central role in shaping Britain’s economy, its public services and the living standards of its citizens.

How has the role of the Treasury evolved in recent decades, and has this change led to better or worse policy outcomes? To what extent has the emboldened position of Chancellor been institutionalised, or driven by personalities? And what can we learn from the Treasury’s recent record, as Britain looks to drastically improve its economic record over the coming decade?

To debate and answer these questions, the Society of Professional Economists and the Resolution Foundation are hosting a joint event to mark the launch of a new book by Howard Davies, The Chancellors: Steering the British Economy in Crisis Times. Sir Howard, who has played leading roles at key economic institutions ranging from the Bank of England to the Treasury, the CBI and the LSE, will be joined for an in-person conversation with former Chancellor George Osborne.

Chaired by Stephanie Flanders, Head of Bloomberg Economics, the event is being held at the Resolution Foundation, 2 Queen Anne’s Gate, London, SW1H 9AA. Registration and networking drinks from 5.00pm. The panel debate will commence at 5.30pm prompt and finish at 6.30pm.

This event is for members only. If you wish to learn more please email admin@spe.org.uk