Dr Vince Cable MP, Lib Dem Shadow Chancellor and professional economist, was at the BRSLI yesterday to talk on financial policy and his time as acting Liberal Democrat leader.

Treating his audience as educated adults, Vince’s speech was occasionally technical, but well delivered and thoroughly explained the reasons for the current ‘credit crisis’ and the dangers of personal debt in Britain, which he first raised in parliament five years ago. His expertise was well received and he answered a number of questions about the global and British economy, plus the handling of the 10% tax rate rise and Northern Rock (on which his recommendations were eventually followed, six months later).

It was very good to meet other members of the public audience in the reception afterwards, including senior finance managers and economists from BathNES council and Bath university. Bath Liberal Democrats intend to hold more public lectures at the BRSLI in the future.