WHY MADE IN THE UNITED KINGDOM MATTER?

Reflections on Bradford and the UK's Economic Landscape

During my visit to Bradford in May 2022, I was reminded of its rich history as the wool capital of the world. It had been almost 28 years since my last visit, and the changes were evident. I met with Satnam, the interim manager of the Economic Development Department of the City of Bradford, and we toured the area together before I left for France.

Satnam took me around the city center, showing me the Wool Exchange building and the Salt Mill. As I walked through these historic sites, I couldn't help but feel the weight of the city's past—the stories embedded in every brick. Bradford felt like a city left behind, yet filled with a quiet sense of hope. As a wool specialist, I could vividly imagine the once-bustling wool auctions that took place daily in the now-transformed Wool Exchange, which is now a bookstore. It was once a city full of life and industry.

The Impact of Economic Shifts

The 2016 election reflects the consequence of such economic shift. The middle class has been losing so much without being heard or making changes to their voice. They become desperate to seek change for any voice promised, easily manipulated by historical events, such as those seen in communist regimes in Soviet Russia, China, Vietnam, and Nazi Germany. History is repeating itself, and even stable American democracy could become fragile, as evidenced by the January 6th insurrection in Congress, fueled by false claims and a rejection of democratic election results. As professor Robert Reich noted in 1997, if the middle class continues to erode, who will be the next target? In 20 years, we have all the truth to approve of his righteousness!

The Legacy of the Industrial Revolution

The 2012 London Olympics opening ceremony beautifully showcased how British innovation and industrialization changed the world. The UK led the first and was joint leader in the second industrial revolution, sparking unprecedented progress. This all started with the Glorious Revolution, which curbed the King's absolute power and paved the way for individual freedom, laying the foundation for opportunities for all citizens. With the invention of steam engines and the birth of the cotton spinning system, Britain propelled the world into the modern age.

A Sense of Loss

However, as I walked around Bradford, there was an unmistakable sense of loss. The nation that had contributed so much to the world seemed to be struggling, symbolized by the patchwork repairs on once glorious buildings. I had seen a different side of the UK in London—a well-managed mega-city that effortlessly blends history and modernity. But even amidst the grandeur of Queen Elizabeth, world-class museums, and the legacy of the Beatles, something still felt amiss.

Economic Restructuring and Globalization

Movies like ‘Dunkirk’ and ‘Darkest Hour’ remind us of the immense hardships the British endured during World War II. The war drained the nation's resources, resources that could have fueled future economic leadership. During the war, state-owned enterprises took center stage, consolidating power in the economy. This hybrid economic model persisted until the 1980s, leading to a period of economic restructuring marked by strikes and disruptions. The cost of this shift was high, but it ultimately brought about new innovations and paved the way for future economic growth.

However, in the decades that followed, the UK fell victim to the wave of globalization. This new economic philosophy promised utopia but dismantled the very foundation of the country's economy. Local manufacturing and the middle class, the backbone of a healthy, self-sustaining economy and democracy, suffered greatly. As manufacturing jobs disappeared, they were replaced by low-paying service sector positions, leaving many working-class families barely scraping by.

The Call for a Strong Manufacturing Base

Today, Britain faces not only the challenges of globalization but also the drain of resources caused by dictatorial leadership abroad, threatening national security. What the UK desperately needs is a strong manufacturing base to provide stable incomes for its struggling families. Rebuilding the middle class is essential to developing a healthy, self-sustaining nation. Over the past 30+ years, it has become clear that the utopian ideals of a globalized world are deeply flawed. Rather than fostering cooperation, globalization has left many nations vulnerable, pushing us toward increased uncertainty—and even the threat of a third world war. The UK must urgently change course and rebuild a strong, sustainable economy. This isn't just for the British people but for the future of civilization itself. A robust manufacturing sector is key to achieving this goal, and it requires the collective will of the nation.

Challenges and Solutions

Some argue that it's too expensive to manufacture goods in the UK or that there's a shortage of skilled labor. These challenges are often used as excuses to avoid bringing manufacturing jobs back home. However, there is no quick fix. Rebuilding manufacturing capacity requires a gradual, collaborative effort. No single person can make it happen. The entire industry must come together with a sense of urgency and cooperation to address these issues.

An Invisible War

We must recognize that we are in an invisible "third world war,” a silent but destructive battle, like termites slowly eating away at the foundation of your house. By the time the damage becomes visible, it may be too late. The time to act is now. As consumers, we have the power to make a difference. We can use our purchasing choices to support brands and companies that prioritize UK manufacturing. By doing so, we invest in our future and ensure the strength of our sovereign nation. With the support of modern technology, we can identify products that are imported and target those sectors for domestic production. Brands and companies should commit to sourcing at least 25% of their products from the UK within the next 10 years. Additionally, new factories or joint ventures must aim to produce goods at prices no more than 30% higher than current imports, with brands and retailers providing consistent, year-round orders to support these efforts.

Confronting Economic Reality

The UK must confront the reality that it is no longer as strong as it once was. Granting lower duties and allowing cheap imports to flood the market is not a solution. There is no benefit to allowing inexpensive, non-essential products to dominate the UK market; doing so will only destroy any chance of rebuilding domestic manufacturing. Now is the time to impose high import duties, especially on Chinese products or those from transit countries. Duties ranging from 60-100% are necessary to reduce carbon footprints and give local businesses a chance to thrive.

The Path Forward

Many political elites may dismiss high duties as outdated protectionism, but this is the only tool left to prevent further economic decline. High tariffs will create the conditions needed to rebuild the UK’s manufacturing base, subsequently attracting local professionals and foreign entrepreneurs alike. In fact, this is the best way forward for the country. This is an invisible war, a battle for the UK's economic future. It will require a different kind of courage, like that shown by Churchill during World War II. The UK must act quickly and decisively if it is to prevail effectively.