Which led to discussion about dignity, and what is needed for dignified living to be affordable. Rarely mentioned is the need for the restructuring of the housing market in this country so that all can afford a decent living space away from the rapacious demands of some landlords and the out of control housing market. Thatcher sold of public housing which has never been replaced – it needs to be. Wages need to sufficient to allow independence from Universal Credit and food banks. The differential between the rich and the poor has to close.
Well meaning people and journalists of all persuasions have suggested items that are now essential to modern life like smart phones, Netflix subscription, etc. This misses the point. People should be able to make their own choices whether it is occasional takeaways, cheap foreign holidays, etc. What is important is that they have enough for 3 meals a day, a warm safe home, a job free of intimidation or discrimination, a free health service. In rural areas a car should be included. Leisure activities should not be ignored either.
Before the fascist right talk about the tax cost – they are wrong, it just needs a better distribution of the wealth. The tenants of capitalist economics will need to be adjusted for social welfare and environmental protection – but nothing that would be impossible.