Brown speaks ahead of G20
‘Mr Brown said he hoped G20 leaders meeting in Pittsburgh this month would agree a “global compact for growth” that would include co-ordinated steps to withdraw stimulus packages and government support for banks; a deal on “trigger points” where countries would be expected to act to address global imbalances such as excessive current account deficits and surpluses; and an agreement on climate change.’ – Lionel Barber and Philip Stephens, The Financial Times
‘Therefore, for me, the challenge building in London and Pittsburgh is to achieve a level of economic co-operation that will stand us in good stead as we move through the next year. We need to be clear about how we can return the world economy to durable growth – I’m thinking particularly of the industrialised countries as far as the levels of growth are concerned, but obviously to the high levels of growth that people need to see in other parts of the world as well.’ – Gordon Brown Interview, The Financial Times
Signs of recovery
‘So while I remain cautious that risks to the global economy remain, I am confident that the UK will return to growth round the turn of the year as a result of the measures we have taken.’ – Alistair Darling, Comment is free
Banning binge drinking
‘Everyone has the right to go out and have a good time at the weekend. But those who enjoy themselves responsibly shouldn’t have their night out ruined by intimidating or antisocial behaviour of the persistent minority who are out to cause trouble. Drinking banning orders will help keep our pubs, clubs and city streets, safe, pleasant places for the sensible majority.’ – Alan Johnson, Comment is free
Japanese election results
‘Japanese people know all about earthquakes. So when commentators there describe Sunday’s general election result as the political equivalent of one, they are not indulging in hyperbole. Sunday’s results have utterly transformed the political landscape of a country which, with one brief interruption, has been governed by the conservative Liberal Democrats since 1955.’ – Editorial, The Guardian