The post post-Thatcher era begins
The era of reforms from Thatcher through to New Labour led to rapid growth which, even after recent falls, has left Britain better placed than most major economies, writes Martin Wolf
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A look at how the UK is emerging from recession and the legacy of Labour’s stewardship of the economy since 1997
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Quest to find road to growth
Part 3 – post-crisis strategies: the process of repairing the economy is likely to boost the relative importance of manufacturing, green technology and highly skilled jobs – many of which will still be in finance
High-tech hopes are sent to Coventry
The history of Ansty Park development site casts a sombre light on politicians’ claims that high-tech manufacturing can reduce the trade deficit and lead the UK out of recession
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Audio slideshow: From textiles to technology
Four people in Blackburn give their views on the state of its industry after the English town shifted its focus from textiles to technology
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How to make it
The decline of manufacturing is a consequence of Britain’s previous failed strategy: being an exporter of finance and a consumer of imports. A new model should emerge
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London still banking on the City
Part 2 – Impact of the downturn: With investment bankers poised to take home near-record bonuses, there are questions as to whether the global financial crisis has triggered the profound structural changes in the capital’s Square Mile that so many had anticipated
Fashion designers trim crisis’s impact
As Londoners come to terms with the impact of the recession, their New York counterparts are taking steps to diversify their own city’s economy and revive industries
Manufacturing fades under Labour
Part 1 - The legacy: The importance of manufacturing to the economy declined more rapidly under Labour governments since 1997 than during the Margaret Thatcher era, according to a Financial Times study
Lofty ideals give way to thwarted hopes
Brown’s mission: When Gordon Brown swept into 11 Downing Street 12 years ago he knew the kind of economy he wanted to create. With a certainty born of his personality and Labour’s majority he defined the new government’s mission: to marry fairness with enterprise
Mill town fears gains will unravel
Blackburn: The town is typical of the big winners of Brown’s Britain. The 19th century “weaving capital of the world” was frayed by factory closures. Labour went a long way towards restoring its fabric – but the transformation has relied on public sector money
Setback for Brown as poverty rises
Study shows poverty, unemployment and home repossessions started rising before recession and gains for children have been reversed, casting doubt over Labour’s social policies
