30 years later and there are some unwelcome parallels. Persistent stagflation (inflation + negative growth) Rising oil prices, a much more serious credit binge and consequent debt recovery.
In some ways, things aren't as bad as the 1970s. Inflation of 3.5% is not comparable to the inflation of 20%. The current threat of a petrol blockade is pretty insignificant compared to the actual reality of a three day week. TV off at 10.30pm. Life was very different.
But, at least, the 1970s didn't have such a persistent recession and mass unemployment.
Double Dip Recession
Figures published by ONS today, show that the UK is officially in a double dip recession. Some may wave the figures away saying it is only small fall - and it is just because of a big fall in construction. But, it is remarkable and worrying to see such a prolonged fall in GDP. (Bear in mind the UK's long run trend rate is 2.5%) But, GDP is still lower than in the 2008 peak. That's three years of falling living standards.
More on double dip recession
IMF Bailout
The 1970s, was also a time when the UK needed its only IMF bailout (UK national debt was only around 75% of GDP). These days, the IMF have much bigger challenges than a relatively small debt of 75%. The big concern for the IMF is that even a firewall of £1 trillion does nothing to tackle the underlying problems of the Eurozone.
Scottish Independence
The discovery of oil in the north Sea during the 1970s, was a factor in contributing to the re-emergence of Scottish nationalism. Economics looks to be the decisive issue in swaying whether people will vote for independence.
- This is a brief look at economic consequences of Scottish independence.
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