Winston Churchill's 1935 denunciation of ministerial indecision could equally describe Andy Burnham's premiership, according to columnist Leo McKinstry. Writing in the Daily Express, McKinstry argues that Labour's lack of action and drift is fostering a climate of greed and entitlement.
Churchill's Words Applied to Burnham
In 1935, as the National Government faced global economic crises and the rise of Nazism, Churchill criticised ministers for lacking purpose. He said: "They go on in a strange paradox, decided only to be undecided, resolved to be irresolute, adamant for drift, solid for fluidity, all-powerful to be impotent."
McKinstry contends these words apply to Burnham's government, which he says has made procrastination a central principle. He points to massive debts, neglected defences, open borders, welfare dependency, and overseas turmoil as issues the Cabinet appears reluctant to address.
Budget Criticised as 'Damp Squib'
The columnist describes this week's Budget, delivered by Chancellor John Healey, as a "damp squib." He notes the record-breaking tax burden, described as the largest in British peacetime history, and says the statement contained 98 separate measures but none addressed fundamental economic flaws.
McKinstry highlights that national debt exceeds £3 trillion, with annual servicing costs over £110 billion. Healey reportedly admitted debt interest payments could rise by another £14 billion this year. The columnist adds that the majority of British households are now net takers from the government rather than net contributors.
Criticism of Healey and Opposition
McKinstry accuses Healey of deceit, noting his summer resignation over defence spending but claiming he has offered nothing substantial on boosting the armed forces. He also says the Chancellor's promise of "fiscal discipline" is contradicted by a lack of genuine cuts in public expenditure.
The article praises Opposition Leader Kemi Badenoch's response to the Budget, quoting her question: "Is that it?" McKinstry describes her performance as superb.
BMA and Other Commentary
Separately, McKinstry criticises the British Medical Association for sanctioning strike action by medical consultants over two days in late November. He notes consultants earn average salaries above £150,000 and received a 28.5% increase in basic starting pay over four years, suggesting a ban on NHS strikes similar to that for the Army, police, and Prison Service.
The column also touches on actor Michael Douglas promoting his autobiography, One Helluva Ride, and criticises Labour's £1.2 billion Connect to Work programme, which recruited 13,900 participants in its first year against a target of 33,600.
