The standard view in Government has been that, economically, the Coalition should hang on for as long as possible before calling the next general election. This was to allow a bonanza pre-election budget, more houses to be built and households to feel a bit better as the cost-of-living crisis eases. The second leg to this was a firm belief in Government that the next couple of years would be particularly good for the exchequer, so why risk allowing Sinn Féin in until as late as possible to start spending the cash?
Now, however, things are starting to look different. The case for an earlier election, perhaps in Spring 2024, is growing. The economic signals may not be flashing red, but there are a few amber lights appearing. There is no doubt that economic growth is slowing – and that this is not just a figment of our unreliable GDP figures. Higher interest rates and the…
