The State We Need: Keys to the Renaissance of Britain - Hardcover

Meacher, Michael

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 184954588X ISBN 13: 9781849545884

Publisher: Biteback, 2013

Synopsis

At a time when great issues are crying out for resolution - financial and economic stagnation, an increasingly polarised society, global paralysis over climate change, and spiritual emptiness and loss of vision throughout the West - politics is dominated by spin and manipulation. Too many people feel confused, cynical and angry... and poorly represented by a remote political elite in Westminster. Despite the crash, that elite are still clinging to the same old ideas that have been tried and found wanting; we're still being told that we're not allowed to think outside the box of Thatcher's capitalism.

This book opens up a whole new vista - one that is radical but also practical. It presents a different model for business, a restructured banking system, an alternative economic policy, a reconfigured power structure, an industrial policy geared to the revival of manufacturing, a sharply different approach to employment and welfare, as well as inequality in society, and a fundamental reassessment of the handling of climate change. The State We Need answers the cry of the alienated many. It delivers a full analysis of the problems facing the British state, and offers the comprehensive, resonating vision of Britain for which we've all been waiting.

About this title

About the Author

Michael Meacher was the Labour Member of Parliament for Oldham West and Royton from 1997 until his death in 2015, having previously been the MP for Oldham West. He served as a junior minister under Harold Wilson and James Callaghan, and was Minister of State for the Environment and Privy Counsellor in Tony Blair's Labour government.

Review

'This is a powerful manifesto for a just nation... I urge you to read it and then agitate for the better world Michael Meacher envisages.' George Monbiot 'Michael Meacher's book sets our current economic crisis in its proper historical frame, and provides a clear plan of action for the future from education policy to financial reform. The State We Need is a must-read for all radicals.' Robert Skidelsky 'At a time of deepening economic and environmental crises, this book is a much-needed beacon of hope for a better future, written by one of the most committed and experienced politicians of our time.' Caroline Lucas MP 'Michael Meacher has observed the rise and fall of market capitalism over the past forty years and his book is important for two reasons. Firstly, it explains how things have gone disastrously wrong. Secondly, and perhaps more importantly, he explains how they can be put right.' Larry Elliot, Guardian Economics Editor 'This is a welcome contribution to the debate about how to build a stronger, more equal Britain. As Michael's analysis makes clear, we need root-and-branch reform of the economic system. From tax justice to fair pay, financial regulation and green jobs, now is the time for radicalism.' Frances O'Grady, General Secretary of the TUC 'Meacher clearly explains how free-market fundamentalists through the ages have over-seen Britain's decline but remain incapable of sparking a revival... In every other aspect his vision of an open, empowering, participatory state makes this a manifesto well worth reading.' The People's Daily Morning Star, Luke James 'There is much to be said for Meacher's bleak diagnosis of a money-driven, spiritually desolate culture running on unsustainable principles and practices.' Michael White, The Guardian '[An] eminently readable new book.' William Keegan, The Guardian

Edition details

• Publisher: Biteback
• Publication date: 2013
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 184954588X
• ISBN 13: 9781849545884
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 320