Making Generous and Inclusive Policies Politically Feasible

Abstract

Those committed to a more generous and inclusive welfare state face a trilemma in devising policies to meet the double crisis: higher taxes are disliked, the poor are viewed with suspicion and effective, inclusive services demand higher spending. Mass services (NHS, education, pensions) are popular; benefits for the poor are not. Reforms which focus on child poverty, contributory welfare and poverty-level wages are more likely to be politically acceptable. Greater insecurity in a more flexible labour market and pressure for child and elder care and training and work-place rights to help cope with new social risks encourage support for better and more redistributive welfare. More accessible childcare and a bettertrained workforce can improve productivity. An inclusive, humane and generous welfare state is feasible, politically and economically. It requires commitment and political leadership.