David Cameron, the pension and that 2% defence budget.

[ShotOne]

Valid point, HH. The issue is though, many other countries don't include "black economy" figures. The U.S. doesn't and I doubt the Greek govt could even calculate a figure.

[Heathrow Harry]

It's becoming more common - it really bugs the economists that when they total up all the Inputs & outputs in their models that there is a constant error due to the "black" economy. It also skews decisons on tax and spending etc

Might as well stick in an estimate even if you can only tax it at the Lamborghini dealers or through property taxes

[Bannock]

Looks like freedom fries are gone and our cousins have put French Fries back on le Menu.


France Displaces Britain as Key US Military Ally

[Jimlad1]

Really? I've lost track of how many times I've seen that type of story, all of which originate from the French who seem desperate to be loved.

I'll give it far more credence when the 5 EYES community becomes 6 EYES...

[Willard Whyte]

At least they can mix 'n' match their aircraft & flat-tops with the USN.

[Jimlad1]

Cross decking is a tired cliche. In reality beyond some occasional touch and goes, I can't think of a single nation that has routinely operated and sustained any credible number of aircraft on a foreign carrier.

To say the French can cross deck is technically true, but ultimately pointless.

[Heathrow Harry]

but very very useful in an emergency.................

[Danny42C]

I have read somewhere (but cannot quote a source) that in WWII, 75% of GDP was spent on Defence.

"Si vis pacem, para bellum": "If you want Peace, prepare for War"

The old Romans were on to something !

[AARON O'DICKYDIDO]

Danny42C

I think it was 50%. But I could be wrong.

Aaron.

[Melchett01]

Not sure how accurate it is or their sources / methodology, but they seem to suggest it peaked at 46% of GDP in 1943, growing from 3% in 1935.

http://http://www.ukpublicspending.co.uk/past_spending

If accurate, it's interesting to note that even during the 'wilderness years' spending was 50% higher than today's politically celebrated levels.

[Arclite01]

We can always send our carriers over for comparison & support trials............

Oh no, hang on....................

Well, we can always send our air group over................

Oh no, hang on..................

Trend Alert, trend Alert, trend alert......this is no drill......

Arc