In this second of my series of op-eds for the National Post offering advice to the Tories as they choose a new leader, I focus on how to make the party of economic opportunity by vowing to double the size of the economy by 2050. Moreover I lay out how this can help achieve fiscal responsibility and balanced budgets without frightening off people who believe government, on balance, makes their lives better, not worse.
“Responsible growth solves a lot of problems for Canadians and for whoever leads the Conservatives. Voters feel confident when they think their own position is secure, and young people and others who feel they are not participating in Canada’s prosperity know that a strong demand for workers beats all the government programs you can invent.
“Growth and jobs become the justification for such favoured Tory policies as deregulation, tax reform, supporting families and ensuring that those who are capable of working are given every incentive to do so. Who needs a guaranteed annual income when real work is available for all? Just keeping spending per capita steady while letting the economy grow means taxes and debt can both fall while preserving existing services.
“Conservatives may wish to go further, however, especially given the rapid growth in government since 2015. Here they could learn from former Liberal finance minister Paul Martin. The idea of taking a page from the Martin playbook scandalizes some Conservatives, but they have it wrong. He stole from the conservative playbook; only unsuccessful generals disdain to learn from their opponent’s victories.”
March, 2022
