Can Britain escape its low-growth trap? Jeremy Hunt explores the future of the UK economy
The School of Public Policy welcomed former Chancellor Jeremy Hunt for the final public event of the academic year, bringing our 2025/26 programme to a close with a timely discussion on the future of the UK economy.
Titled Can we be rich again? The extraordinary potential of Britain's economy, the event saw Jeremy Hunt draw on his new book of the same name to explore the economic challenges facing the UK and the opportunities for renewed growth and prosperity.
Speaking to an audience in the Sheikh Zayed Theatre, Hunt reflected on the succession of economic shocks that have contributed to low growth, stagnant living standards and rising public debt. Drawing on his experience as Chancellor from 2022 to 2024, he considered whether Britain is stuck in a low-growth trap and what can be done to escape it.
Despite the challenges facing the UK economy, Hunt argued that there are reasons for optimism. He highlighted Britain's strengths, including its technology ecosystem, financial services sector, globally admired universities and respected institutions, and explored what the UK can learn from successful economies around the world.
Following his remarks, Hunt was joined in conversation by Professor Tony Travers, Associate Dean of the School of Public Policy. Together, they explored the choices facing policymakers and the steps needed to unlock Britain's economic potential.
The discussion concluded with a lively audience Q&A, with questions exploring the UK's economic outlook and the policy decisions that could shape future growth and living standards.
As the final public event of the academic year, the evening brought another busy programme of public events at the School of Public Policy to a close. Throughout the year, the School has welcomed leading policymakers, academics and public figures to debate some of the most pressing challenges facing societies around the world, creating opportunities for our students, wider community and the public to engage with the ideas shaping policy today.