Britain's Trillion Pound Horror Story is a documentary series from Channel 4 that explores the UK's national debt, which at the time of filming was over £2 trillion. The series consists of three episodes, each delving deeper into the economic and political forces that have led to the country's staggering debt.
The first episode, titled "Can We Afford to Grow?", examines how the UK's obsession with growth has contributed to the national debt. Through interviews with politicians, economists, and business leaders, the episode looks at how successive governments have prioritized economic growth over reducing the deficit. It also looks at the impact of austerity measures on public services and the wider economy.
The second episode, "The Great Pensions Robbery", examines the UK's pension crisis and how it has contributed to the national debt. Through interviews with pensioners and experts in the field, the episode looks at how successive governments have failed to adequately fund pensions, leaving many retirees struggling to make ends meet. It also looks at the impact of an aging population on the economy and the wider society.
The final episode, "The Bankers' Masterstroke", looks at how the banking industry played a significant role in the UK's economic crash in 2008 and how the government's response to the crisis has contributed to the national debt. Through interviews with bankers, economists, and politicians, the episode examines the deregulation of the banking industry, the bailouts of major banks, and the impact of quantitative easing on the economy.
Throughout the series, the filmmakers use a mix of interviews, animations, and archive footage to explain complex economic concepts and theories. They also talk to ordinary people who have been affected by the national debt, from pensioners struggling to make ends meet to young people unable to get on the property ladder.
Overall, Britain's Trillion Pound Horror Story is a thought-provoking and informative series that sheds light on the UK's national debt and the complex economic and political forces that have contributed to it. It raises important questions about the role of government, the banking industry, and society as a whole in creating a sustainable and prosperous economy for all.
