Halfway through our UK adventure it’s easy to see why money pours into this small country where cranes seem to be everywhere, despite a cost base that drains the blood from any South African visitor.
Quite simply, the UK is open for business. Its political rulers were re-elected on a platform of close co-operation with the private sector and disciplined management of the economy. Add the rule of law and checks on power from a vibrant media and independent courts, and it’s no surprise to see people from all over the world invest heavily into this secure democracy.
Of course Britain has its challenges. Headlines suggest the biggest of these is how to deal fairly with hundreds of thousands would-be immigrants trying to live here. Also it’s tricky balancing an emotional drive for independence from the EU against the economic benefits membership brings.
But one thing South Africa should learn from its former colonial ruler, is how a consistent, investment-friendly political approach translates into growing prosperity. And how this creates an environment where people will do just about anything to get themselves and their money in. Not away from, as the weak Rand tells us is what’s happening in SA right now.
