Today’s Budget statement contained few surprises, and that itself is nothing new. But there was something that took me slightly aback: not just that the government is proceeding with its British ISA plans, but that the word “Great” doesn’t precede the product’s title itself.
A petty thing to point out, perhaps. Indeed, it suggests a government lighter on patriotism than onlookers have come to expect – and perhaps one more cogniscent of political sensitivities.
Whatever the reason, the outcome is entirely fitting. Because the policy isn’t an outstanding example of the levers of power at work. Even the providers in favour of it aren’t exactly staking their business plans on its inception. And that says all you need to know. Beyond that, there are reasons to hate it.
Before we get to those, it’s worth looking at why it exists, and how you could use it.
