Ex-UK Prime Minister Warns of Economic Downturn, Shows Support for Bitcoin
The UK's former Prime Minister, Liz Truss, has expressed concerns over the country's stagnant economy, stating that it has been plagued by problems for decades. She attributes many of these issues to a lack of sound monetary policy and the devaluation of the British currency due to inflation and excessive money printing. Truss, who served as Prime Minister for 45 days in 2022, has become increasingly interested in bitcoin, viewing it as a potential hedge against currency devaluation. She first encountered bitcoin during her time at the Treasury, where she worked for about two years until July 2019. In a recent interview, Truss stated that the absence of meaningful discussions around money in academia and government has become 'sinister' and that debates about monetary policy have been 'taboo' within government, despite their significant impact on the economy. Truss believes that bitcoin represents a pushback against the trend of increased centralized control and the erosion of financial independence. She warns that the UK economy is on a 'very negative trajectory,' driven by weak growth, rising state control, and the failure of monetary policy. According to Truss, the country faces long-term decline, with high taxes, regulation, and energy costs creating a significant disincentive for entrepreneurs. Truss also reflected on the market turmoil that followed the 2022 mini-budget, stating that it exposed underlying fragilities in the system rather than causing them. She is now focused on building a political movement, including the CPAC UK conference, which aims to bring together activists, entrepreneurs, and voices from the 'sovereignty and liberty' movement. Truss emphasized the need for a movement that understands the problems facing the country, framing the stakes as a choice between accepting the status quo or driving change.