Letters to the Editor – 24/02 – Planning laws, Political banking, Best of Twitter
Planning laws
[Re: The only solution to the housing crisis: build, build and build, Friday]
Well said. The iron grip on planning laws held by councils throughout the UK simply stops the housing market from functioning properly. Just a quick look through the government’s online “planning portal” reveals the complexity that builders must deal with. There’s even an interactive semi-detached house detailing restrictions on all manner of residential developments, like installing a security alarm or a skylight roof window – a clear sign of the micro-managing mentality that needs confronting.
Harry Davies
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Political banking
[Re: Bank’s Weale points to early 2015 rate hike, Friday]
An awful lot of commentators seem to agree that it is unlikely the Bank of England will raise rates before the 2015 general election. But so far, far too few have actually properly questioned what this says about the independence of our central bank. It is all too easy to criticise the apparent politicisation of monetary policy in countries like Turkey and, more recently, Nigeria. Perhaps we should turn our attention to matters domestic. The issue is clearly on a much smaller scale, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth discussing.
Name withheld
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BEST OF TWITTER
Most beautiful bits of Britain were built when there was no planning. People know best what they want.
@Martin_Durkin
Nigeria central bank head Lamido Sanusi ousted. So much for central banking independence.
@justmyMO
One in seven workers in Britain are now self-employed. Highest share on record.
@jamestplunkett
Of the world’s 10 most polluted cities, Iran is home to four of them, Pakistan and India each have two.
@ianbremmer