Abstract

We are launching a series of keynote lectures on public policy. The speakers are prominent figures drawn from all waves of the political spectrum; those who have made and are making contributions of notable significance to the political and economic life of the country. The lectures are intended for all members of the university and the community beyond.

The country is in trouble. The economic crisis is on a scale not seen since the 1930s. The reductions in public spending, made in order to bring down a deficit of a size not seen in peacetime, threatens the stability of much of the public sector. Tax increases cause hardship to poor families, drive up costs for business and disincentivise entrepreneurs. The appearance of a coalition government and the scandals over false expenses claims by members of parliament point to a crisis of governance, and a deep sense of uncertainty in the country about how it wishes to be governed, and by whom.

It is our belief that Cambridge University, as a leading institution of learning, will benefit collectively from opening up the debate with the outer world, upon which we critically depend and towards which we can make a weighty contribution.

Our first speaker is the Rt. Hon. John Redwood M.P., former Secretary of State for Wales, who will speak on the credit and economic crisis, analysing where it has reached, and seeking to work out what may happen next.

Professor Jonathan Haslam FBA Dr Simon Heffer