Economy: Government Policies Debate

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Department: HM Treasury

Economy: Government Policies

Lord Davies of Oldham Excerpts
Wednesday 7th December 2011

(12 years, 5 months ago)

Lords Chamber
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Lord Sassoon Portrait Lord Sassoon
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My Lords, to repeat, the pension funds and also the insurance companies have come to Government and asked for our help. We have signed a memorandum of understanding to help them set up their vehicle as quickly as possible, because clearly they want to find an investment home for their money.

Lord Davies of Oldham Portrait Lord Davies of Oldham
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My Lords, does the Minister accept that the best deficit reduction strategy is in fact a growing economy? Why are the Government pursuing policies that have already reduced growth, and are destined to do so for several years?

Lord Sassoon Portrait Lord Sassoon
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I do not accept that at all. Of course we all wish to see a strongly growing economy. The latest forecasts from the OBR are that the private sector will generate 1.7 million jobs over the forecast period. That is strong growth in the private sector.