Unit 1: Illegal rubbish dumps in Greece

Laws may be easy to pass, but enforcement can prove a problem as this clip from the BBC shows

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-25546443#

Unit 1: More information from Government on the possible health implications of smoking

...reports the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-25540658#

Unit 2: The effect of a rising £

Nicely summarised in this Sky News story

http://news.sky.com/story/1187558/pound-hits-two-year-high-against-dollar

Unit 1: Action to prevent market failure with payday loans?

That's the proposal to ban payday loan ads from children's TV

http://news.sky.com/story/1185126/ban-payday-loan-ads-on-kids-tv-mps-say

Unit 2: The Sirius scheme: A supply side policy

A small scale supply side policy reported by sky

http://news.sky.com/story/1182890/young-entrepreneurs-set-up-shop-in-Britain

and a BBC audio on the same story

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-25397373#

Unit 2: Why is saving high and consumtion low in China?

A nice clip with the answers from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-25309669#

Unit 1: Should e-cigarettes be more closely regulated?

Some believe they should

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-25354050#

UNit 2: Should low inflation be the primary macro objective?

A nice evaluative post from economicshelp

http://www.economicshelp.org/blog/9591/unemployment/low-inflation-objective/

Unit 2: What are the effects of a decrease in interest rates?

A nice evaluative post from economicshelp

http://www.economicshelp.org/blog/3417/interest-rates/effect-of-lower-interest-rates/

Unit 2: Income and spending patterns in the UK

Great data from the ONS via a Guardian article, handy when looking at how weights in CPI/RPI are allocated

http://www.theguardian.com/news/datablog/2013/dec/11/families-spend-489-each-week-on-what

and this interactive one showing changes over time, including, clearly, the effects of the recession

http://www.theguardian.com/news/datablog/interactive/2013/dec/11/family-spending-interactive-how-has-it-changed

Unit 1: Information failure in the fruit and veg market

An amazing story from Tesco. When I read it, I wondered if it was April Fools day!

http://news.sky.com/story/1180717/tesco-blames-customers-for-fruit-and-veg-waste

Unit 1: Private and external costs of alcohol

Sobering (no pun  intended) report from BBC Scotland

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-25303388#

Unit 2: Shanghai's pollution; a cost of economic growth

Great clip from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-china-25288170#

It's a pity such examples are now so common

Unit 1: Allocative efficiency: Bye-bye Blockbuster

Changing consumer methods of watching films sees the end of Blockbuster on the High Street

http://news.sky.com/story/1177984/blockbuster-to-shut-with-1200-job-losses

Unit 1: The rising price of wool

Supply and demand in action in this BBC clip

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-25190538#

Unit 2: Inflation; nice revision summary

.....from economicshelp

http://www.economicshelp.org/blog/2656/inflation/different-types-of-inflation/

Unit 2: Comparative UK macro data

Thanks to Sky's Ed Conway for this comparative tool

http://news.sky.com/story/1177750/conways-console-the-recovery-where-you-live

Unit 1: Actions to reduce information failure regarding smoking

A sobering and informative clip from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-25145548#

Unit 1: Glossary

Thanks to tutor2u for this, but for my students, DONT TREAT THIS AS GOSPEL as it's not OCR specific

https://www.slideshare.net/tutor2u/unit-1-economics-markets-revision-glossary

Unit 1: Negative externalities from a US sauce factory

....reports the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-25126194#

Unit 1: Food outlets forced to display hygiene ratings in Wales

A nice post from BBC Wales showing an attempt to reduce information failure in the fast food/café market

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-25139949#

Unit 1: Packaging restrictions coming to UK cigarettes?

Very likely, it now seems, says Sky news

http://news.sky.com/story/1174669/david-cameron-u-turn-over-cigarette-packaging

and the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-25141367

....and this BBC audio reports the effect of similar packaging changes in Australia

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-25135553#

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-25126673# video

Unit 1: Tinned fish, an inferior good?

Quite possibly, according to this BBC clip

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-25098813#

Unit 1: Externalities associated with energy production

.....both positive and negative examples in this great BBC report

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-25051351#

Unit 1: How much caffine do you consume? A case of information failure?

I've no idea, you decide having looked at this Guardian article

http://www.theguardian.com/news/2013/nov/27/caffeine-compared-coke-coffee-aspirin-chocolate-tea

Unit 2: Multiplier revision powerpoint

Thanks to tutor2u

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-the-multiplier-process-and-multiplier-effect

Unit 1: Subsidies revision pwerpoint

With thanks to tutor2u

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-1-micro-producer-and-consumer-subsidies?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+economics_news+%28tutor2u+Economics+Blog%29#When:18:15:04Z

Unit 1: Controling the price of demerit goods: Payday loans

Are payday loans a demerit good? There is almost certainly information failure in the market and the government now intends to legislate says Sky

http://news.sky.com/story/1173188/payday-loans-to-be-capped-by-government

Unit 1: Extended warrenties; an example of information failure?

Which thinks so, says the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-25065073#

Unit 1: Negative externalities from a new proposed gold mine in Romania

Another great story from Aljazeera

http://bcove.me/ol6sykn8

Unit 1: Plastic bags in New Delhi

A great clip from Aljazeera illustrating not just the normal negative externalities associated with rubbish, but also a positive externality. Great stuff!

http://bcove.me/qnq61zpd

Unit 1: A disturbing example of negative externalities from China

Thanks to Aljazeera

http://bcove.me/wwnewv3v

Unit 1: Are supermarket customers suffering information failure?

Yes, reports the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-24998958#

Unit 1: A law is fine, but how is it enforced?

Standard theory suggests market failure can be reduced by regulation/legislation, but it has to be enforced

This BBC clip appears to show that isn't always the case and so breaking the law becomes less of an issue......and the negative externality remains!

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-25030730#

Unit 1: NY introduces minimum age and minimum prices for cigarettes

....reports the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-25012633#

a) To what extent are these measures likely to reduce the market failure caused by cigarettes?

Unit 1: The demise of Tie Rack: Allocative efficiency

As anyone who knows me will testify, I've never bothered the sales staff in Tie Rack. Now it appears, others are following my approach and not buying ties as Sky reports

http://news.sky.com/story/1170762/jobs-at-risk-as-tie-rack-exits-high-streets

a) How does this closure illustrate the idea of allocative efficiency

Unit 1: Mobiles in cars; a demerit good?

This BBC clip argues that is the case

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-24983292#

Unit 2: Fiscal Policy: Revision pwerpoint

Thanks to tutor2u

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-fiscal-policy-revision-presentation

Unit 1: Is breastfeeding a merit good?

It could well be, according to the government who are starting a trial to give vouchers (ie a subsidy) to mothers who breastfeed. This BBC video explains all

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-24908670#

a) What are the 2 conditions needed for a merit good?
b) Does breastfeeding meet these criteria
a) Evaluate the likely success of this project

Unit 1: Allocative efficiency and the demise of Blockbuster

Sky reports

http://news.sky.com/story/1167901/jobless-rate-at-three-year-low-of-7-6-percent

a) In what way does the disappearance of Blockbuster from high streets show allocative efficiency in the economy?

Unit 1: Shine on you crazy diamond

Classis S&D story in the auction house

http://news.sky.com/story/1167901/jobless-rate-at-three-year-low-of-7-6-percent

Unit 2: November 2013: Inproved unemployment figures

Report from Sky news

http://news.sky.com/story/1167901/jobless-rate-at-three-year-low-of-7-6-percent

and UK by region map from the Guardian

http://www.theguardian.com/news/datablog/interactive/2013/nov/13/uk-unemployment-mapped-adult-youth

Unit 1: Payday loans; a demerit good?

Ed Milliband appears to think so as he want regulations introduced to restrict when they can be shown, says Sky

http://news.sky.com/story/1166417/miliband-slams-payday-lenders-kids-ads

a) Why might payday loans be characterised as a demerit good?
b) To what extent would the proposal reduce the market failure?
c) What other actions could the government take? Would they be more successful?

Unit 2: ECB cuts interest rates

A really informative article from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-24851483#

a) Why has the ECB cut the rate? Explain your answer in terms of the 4 macro-economic objectives
b) Evaluate the likely success of this policy move

Unit 1: US Government bans transfats

Thanks to tutor2u for this post

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-1-micro-us-food-authorities-take-step-to-ban-transfats

a) What is the market failure this intervention is meant to correct?
b) Evaluate the likely success of the government action in correcting the market failure
c) Outline one other action the US government could have taken instead of the legislation and compare the likely success of the 2 policies

Unit 1: Why has demand for blockbusters products collapsed

This article from Sky explains

http://news.sky.com/story/1165304/blockbuster-to-close-remaining-us-shops

a) Using the theory of demand, explain the demise of Blockbusters, both in the US and the UK

Unit 1: What explains the rising demand for new cars?

An interesting article from Sky news

http://news.sky.com/story/1164674/new-car-sales-fuel-efficiency-boosts-demand

a) Given we are experiencing little or no growth in real incomes, which of the determinants of demand explains the increasing demand for new cars?

Unit 1: Carbon capture: A market that requires more government intervention?

Given the positive externalities from carbon capture, what policies could the government use to accelerate its adoption?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-24804367#

Unit 2: The Welfare to Work scheme in Wales

Not a very successful supply side policy according to this BBC clip

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-24813127#

Unit 2: The effect of a changing exchange rate

Nice post from economicshelp. especially the evaluation ideas at the end of the post

http://www.economicshelp.org/blog/9328/business/effect-exchange-rate-business/

Unit 1: Negative externalities from sand mining in India

A really good example of negative externalities from Al Jazeera

http://bcove.me/chpfib65

Unit 1: Cuba; a step back to central planning?

Interesting development in Cuba that seems to buck the recent trend reports the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-latin-america-24793109#

...and Aljazeera

http://bcove.me/q578hx7h

Unit 1: The used car market; a case of information failure?

It would appear so from the point of view of the consumer, according to this BBC clip which clearly shows asymmetric information in the market

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-24784713#

Unit 1: New York raises smoking age to 21

....reports Aljazeera

http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid1659202292001?bckey=AQ~~,AAAAmtVJIFk~,TVGOQ5ZTwJbsT0Mq3k9H8GCa4jV3vL4M&bclid=0&bctid=2788180096001

Unit 2:European unemployment and inflation data

...available via the hyperlinks in this BBC summary

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-24758601#

Unit 1: Should we tax sugary drinks to reduce obesity?

Possibly, or possibly not, says this Sky news clip

http://news.sky.com/story/1162375/sugary-drinks-tax-could-raise-treasury-275m

Unit 1: Wine prices to rise?

Apparently so, according to this BBC clip full of demand and supply analysis

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-24753585#

So why don't we just produce more wine? Think elasticity of supply!

Unit 1: Is a voluntary agreement enough, or should there be legislation to limit fat in food?

An interesting article from Ch4

http://www.channel4.com/news/saturated-fats-food-supermarkets-health-nestle-tesco-kit-kat

Unit 1: The tablet market

Thanks to economicshelp for this summary of changes in the tablet market

http://www.economicshelp.org/blog/9249/business/growth-global-tablet-market/

Unit 2: Macro data on inflation, unemployment and the economic cycle

Thanks to tutor2u fro data charts on

Inflation http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-ten-charts-on-uk-inflation?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+economics_news+%28tutor2u+Economics+Blog%29#When:21:34:44Z

Unemployment http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-ten-charts-on-unemployment

Economic cycle http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-ten-charts-on-the-uk-economic-cycle

Unit 1: Are chocolate prices about to rise?

Yes, if this BBC clip is correct

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-24607261#

Unit 2: AD and AS tutor2u resources

Thanks, as ever, to tutor2u for this update on the AD pwerpoint

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-aggregate-demand

and this AS summary

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-short-run-aggregate-supply

Unit 1: Externalities associated with air pollution

Thanks to tutor2u for this

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-1-micro-air-pollution-leading-cause-of-cancer?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+economics_news+%28tutor2u+Economics+Blog%29#When:20:57:35Z

Unit 2: Re-balancing the Chinese economy

Interesting clip from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-24270734#

Unit 1: Ireland's austerity leads to the young emigrating

....according to the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-24533411#

Unit 1: Productive efficiency in transport: Container ships

I love stories about the biggest, fastest, etc so this economics packed clip, I love!!!

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-24439603#

Unit 1: Young drivers: Providers of negative externalities?

Possibly, if this report is true and these new government restrictions are turned into actions

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-24491695#

Unit 1: Information failure in the weight loss market

A sad case, reports the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-24456217#

Unit 1: Tesco's Huddle v Argos My tablet; a tale of substitutes.....

....and possibly inferior goods?

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-1-micro-argos-tablet-and-inferior-goods

Unit 2: The effects of inflation on different groups

Nice post from tutor2u

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/inflation-different-impacts-on-different-people?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+economics_news+%28tutor2u+Economics+Blog%29#When:12:41:55Z

Unit 2: Falling unemployment, but it's not a uniform picture across the country

Nice chart from Sky news to highlight regional differences

http://news.sky.com/story/1155213/employment-jobless-benefit-claims-tumble

and this from the BBC re age of the unemployed

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-24550497#

Unit 1: More restrictions proposed on cigarette sales in Europe

....according to the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-24493979#

Unit 1: Increased demand for bulletproof cars in Pakistan

A classic case of increased demand due to changing taste and fashion in Pakistan

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-24488387#

Unit 1: Post office shares: A disequilibrium price?

The launch price appears to be well below the equilibrium price if initial trading is any indication

Saucony ProGrid Ride 4 Running Shoes 280944

Unit 1: Rising demand for new cars

.....reports Sky

http://news.sky.com/story/1150123/new-car-sales-accelerate-in-September

and a summary from tutor2u

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/signs-of-recovery-in-the-uks-new-car-sales?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+economics_news+%28tutor2u+Economics+Blog%29#When:07:44:16Z

Unit 1: The falling price of lobster in the USA

....according to the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-24409146

Unit 2: Compulsory work/activities for the unemployed: A supply side policy?

The BBC reports the latest Conservative party thinking

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-24333069#

Unit 1: It's easy to pass legislation like the minimum wage.....

........ but how easy are they to enforce? Without enforcement, the market failure continues, reports the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-24231924#

Unit 1: How to reduce the negative externalities from alcolol

Herr's a voluntary scheme in Ipswich

Should the government pass similar legislation?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-suffolk-24280098#

Unit 1: Falling petrol prices

....reports Sky, but should they be coming down by more?

http://news.sky.com/story/1146793/petrol-prices-phoney-war-is-over-says-aa

Unit 1: Falling demand for holidays in Egypt

......reports Sky news

http://news.sky.com/story/1146682/egypt-turmoil-holiday-demand-slumps

Unit 1: Pros and cons of freezing gas prices

Nice clip from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-24276762#

Unit 2: GDP and economic growth powerpoint

....thanks to tutor2U

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/revision-presentation-gdp-as-a-measure-of-economic-growth-and-standard-of-l?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+economics_news+%28tutor2u+Economics+Blog%29#When:20:43:40Z

Unit 2: India raises the tariff on imported gold

....reports the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-24140325#

Unit 1: China subsidises electric cars

....reports the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-24140329#

Unit 1: Rising used car prices

....reports the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-24140995#

Unit 1: The external cost of alcohol: The man who has visited A&E 263 times!

Informative clip from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-24105248#

Unit 1: Changes at Currys

Is this revamp an example of allocative efficiency in the economy?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-24090230#

Unit 1: Giant turbines; productive efficiency in action

Great example from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-essex-24078588#

Unit 2: Greek unemployment

A nice summary of the depressing position in Greece from tutor2u

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-greek-unemployment-reaches-28

Unit 2: The circular flow of income

Nice powerpoint from tutor2u that builds the model step by step

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/revision-presentation-building-the-circular-flow-of-income-spending?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+economics_news+%28tutor2u+Economics+Blog%29#When:18:26:22Z

Unit 1: Privatisations in the UK

A nice time line from the Guardian

http://www.theguardian.com/news/datablog/interactive/2013/sep/12/biggest-sell-offs-in-uk-privatisation-timeline

Unit 1: Charging for plastic bags

If you believe that free plastic bags lead to negative externalities, then this initiative by the UK government to allow England to follow Wales makes sense

http://news.sky.com/story/1141528/plastic-bags-shoppers-to-be-charged-5p Sky
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-24090133# BBC

a) What other approach could the government take to reduce the negative externality problem?

Unit 1: The economic problem: Heart surgery in Wales

This BBC clip shows scarce resources and unlimited wants

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-23996475#

Unit 1: Negative externalities from refining tar sands

Nice clip from Aljazeera

http://bcove.me/ify8jocs

Unit 1: Negative externalities from the "Walkie Talkie" in London

Damage to cars? Hot spots on the pavement? Burns to people? Strange but true

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-23944679 BBC
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-23941325 BBC
http://news.sky.com/story/1136349/walkie-talkie-skyscraper-beam-melts-cars Sky

Unit 1: India to subsidise grain

....reports the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-india-23845386#

Unit 1: Positive externalities from waste incineration?

Possibly, according to the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-23908360#

Unit 1: The rocketing price of onions in India

Due to  problems with the supply, according to the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-23806040#

Unit 2: Why the rupee is depreciating

Nice explanation from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-23760973#
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-23763474#
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-23751210#

Unit 2: The effect of a changing exchange rate on Japan's BoP

Nice article from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-23751029#

Unit 2: The falling value of the Rupee

Interesting BBC story

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-23722553#

Unit 1: Higher penalty fines; a solution to market failure on our roads?

You decide having watched this BBC video

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-23722219#

Unit 2: UK claimant count reduced: August 2013

Mixed news on the jobs front with rising youth and long term unemployment rising (as is U in some regions), but the CC has fallen again

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-23699341# BBC video UK
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-23694451# ONS explanation
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-23694457 video (NI emphasis)

Unit 2: Inflation component and weights changes since 1990

Fantastic interactive graphic from The Guardian

http://www.theguardian.com/news/datablog/interactive/2012/may/22/inflation-cpi-rpi-interactive

Unit 1: Vertical farming: A way to make a country's fop more productive

Singapore is trying this out reports the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-23675278#

Unit 2: Government spending on capital infrastructure: Cycle networks

Nice example (said the cyclist) from the BBC, possibly leading to positive externalities for the ecponomy

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-23663257#

Unit 1: Payday loans: A demerit good?

It appears some people think so as councils move to limit advertising of these loans and access to payday loan sites from council computers

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-23663590#

Unit 2: GDP explained

Thanks to the BBC for this

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-22277954

Unit 2: Inflation explained

Thanks to the BBC for this summary

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-12196322

Unit 1: How the weather effects the supply of various crops

Nice clip from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-23633811#

Unit 1: Externalities and China

Thanks to tutor2u for this update summary

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-1-micro-externalities-air-pollution-and-life-expectancy-in-china?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+economics_news+%28tutor2u+Economics+Blog%29#When:06:12:59Z

Unit 2: Worsening Greek unemployment figures

Is there no end to the woes the Greek people are suffering?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-23620444#

Unit 2: YTA training: A supply side policy

Thanks to the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-23611570#

a) Why is this an example of a supply side policy?
b) To what extent do you think such training schemes are likely to help the government meet its macroeconomic objectives for the economy?

Unit 1: The effect of GM crops on an agricultural PPC

An interesting article from tutor2u

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/gm-foods-will-be-vital-in-feeding-the-future-world

a) Assuming the argument and figures to be correct (and there are strong opposition arguments), draw a PPC diagram to show the effect on output of introducing these GM crops. Label one axis "GM crops" and the other axis "traditional crops"
b) Explain why you have drawn the change as you have

Unit 2: Australia cuts interest rates

Nice post from the BBC explaining the thinking behind the cut in Australia's interest rates

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-23584374#

Unit 2: Monetary policy and forward guidance

Great clips from the BBC explaining how this forward guidance on interest rates should boost the economy

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-23598143#
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-23608721#

The question is, will it? Why might it not?

....and more from Sky

http://news.sky.com/story/1125586/borrowers-boost-interest-rates-tied-to-jobs

.......and this great summary from tutor2u

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/uk-economy-carney-provides-forward-guidance-on-interest-rates

...and these explanations from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-23145755
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-23599464#
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-23588958

Unit 2: Rising consumer confidence in the UK

....reports the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-23565711#

Unit 1: Sun beds; an example of a market with information failure?

Nice clip from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-23513739#

a) Is more regulation required?
b) What other approaches to reducing the market failure could be used?

Unit 2: Latest UK macro data

Thanks to tutor2u for this slideshow jam packed with up to date data

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/developments-in-the-uk-economy3

Unit 1: How much of the cigarette price is tax?

Some great data from the Guardian showing the $ cost per pack across various countries and the % of that price that is tax

http://www.theguardian.com/society/datablog/2013/aug/01/australia-cigarettes-expensive-tax

This analysis shows prices relative to incomes as it shows how many minutes the average worker has to  work to buy a packet of cigarettes

http://www.businessinsider.com.au/price-pack-of-cigarettes-around-the-world-2012-10

Unit 1: Negative externalities from a new Alaskan copper mine

Great clip from the BBC raising many, many issues

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-23496724#

.....and more on the salmon industry in Bristol Bay

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-23496608#

Unit 1: The price of coffee

Thanks to tutor2u for this post on supply side reasons why the price of coffee beans is falling, including an FT video

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-1-micro-coffee-prices-and-profits-fall-for-growers?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+economics_news+%28tutor2u+Economics+Blog%29#When:09:06:36Z

So, why isn't the price of a cup of coffee on the high street falling?

Unit 2: UK GDP data and analysis

From the Guardian

http://www.theguardian.com/news/datablog/2009/nov/25/gdp-uk-1948-growth-economy

Unit 1: The falling cost of car insurance

....is due to less legal claims for whiplash, apparently

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-23475415#

a) Using a S&D diagram, explain why the price of car insurance has decreased

Unit 1: The opportunity cost of the Meningitis B vaccine

The rejection of the meningitis B vaccine  for the UK highlights many basic issues in economics, scarce resources, unlimited wants, choices, opportunity cost, the validity of data.........

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-23437251# video
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-23422973# article

Unit 1: How much does the weather effects the supply of English wine?

A lot, according to this Ch4 video

http://www.channel4.com/news/english-wine-producers-celebrate-the-summer-weather-video

Unit 2: UK growth in GDP

Is this the start of a recovery?

Interesting video from Ch4 with a great graph at around 4.25 showing how different sectors of the economy have done since the downturn in 2008

http://www.channel4.com/news/uk-economy-gdp-george-osborne-sustained-growth

and the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-23446043#

UNit 2: The effect of a depreciating currency on exports

Very positive appears to be the case in Japan, reports the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-23429558

Unit 1: Actions to reduce the negative externalities from excessive alcohol consumption

For women born in the 70's the private costs appear to be high

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-23371340#

a) Evaluate the alternative measures government could take to reduce the death rate in this age group

Un it 1: What will the level of demand be for a hydrogen fuelled car?

Hyundai intend to launch one in 2015 according to the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-23351291#

a) Using demand theory, explain what will determine the level of demand for these hydrogen fuelled cars

Unit 2: A mixed picture re UK unemployment

Overall, the UK number is down

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-23346187#

...but in Scotland it's rising

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-23348119#

...and long term unemployment is at its highest rate since 1996

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-23340761#

Unit 1: Rubbish on the beach: Negative externalities

Depressing behaviour leading to negative externalities

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-23325495#

a) What could the government do to reduce the negative externalities?

Unit 2: The benefits cap: A supply side policy

Details from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-23311578# video
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-23306092 article

...but how successful will it be? Some really good evaluation in the report

Unit 2: Smog eating pavements

....which appear to have positive externalities associated with them

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-23324177#

Unit 2: China's growth slowing....

.....according to the latest data

http://news.sky.com/story/1115876/china-growth-slows-in-the-second-quarter

a) But why? Explain using the AD formula

Unit 2: THe benefit cap: A supply side policy?

Evaluate how successful this policy is likely to be in meeting the governments objectives

http://news.sky.com/story/1115764/welfare-cap-of-500-a-week-comes-into-force

Unit 1: Demerit goods: The government drops plans for a minimum unit alcolol pricing scheme

Thanks to the BBC for this summary

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-23283821
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-23289009

Unit 2: If you thought Greece's unemployment couldn't get any worse...

....you'd be wrong: The latest data shows U at 27.4% and this video shows one of the consequences; the exodus of the young and skilled

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-23266763#

Unit 2: Economic growth in the EU: Data

Thanks to economics help for this

http://www.economicshelp.org/blog/7684/economics/eu-economic-growth-stats/

Unit 1: Demerit goods: The government steps back from further regulation of the tobacco industry

Thanks to Sky news

http://news.sky.com/story/1114718/plans-for-plain-cigarette-packs-shelved

and the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-23289009
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-23281804

Unit 1: Falling demand for PC's

....due to better substitutes becoming available. A nice summary from tutor2u

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-1-fall-in-sales-of-pcs-due-to-rise-in-demand-of-substitute-goods

Unit 1: Negative externalities in China

Thanks to tutor2u for this post covering air pollution and pork production

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-1-micro-externalities-air-pollution-and-life-expectancy-in-china?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+economics_news+%28tutor2u+Economics+Blog%29#When:06:13:37Z

and this from the BBC on air pollution

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-china-23247803#

Unit 1: The supply of coffee in China

Thanks to tutor2u for finding this FT video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nUiLK7ubjKI#at=52

Unit 1: Extracting iron ore

Great short clip from the BBC showing the fop in action

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-23143585#

Unit 1: Legislation in Wales to supply more organs

As ever, Wales leads the world to increase the supply of donor organs......an example of merit goods?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-23141305#

Unit 2: Hyperinflation explained

Thanks to tutor2u for finding this

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-hyperinflation-explained?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+economics_news+%28tutor2u+Economics+Blog%29#When:09:15:04Z

Unit 2: Where the cuts in government spending will fall

Thanks to the Guardian for these graphics

http://www.guardian.co.uk/news/datablog/interactive/2013/jun/26/spending-review-round-2013-interactive

http://www.guardian.co.uk/news/datablog/2013/jun/26/spending-review-key-charts

and this BBC article

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-23053693

or this BBC video round-up

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-23065671#

Unit 2: Changes in Government spending over time

Some good graphs in this BBC article

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-22998329

.....and this one shows where the cuts have fallen so far

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-23029683#

Unit 1: The rising demand for guns in the USA

How depressing!

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-23043539#

Unit 1: Externalities from wind turbines

This Sky report indicates negative externalities arising from wind turbines

http://news.sky.com/story/1107120/wind-farm-plan-in-bristol-channel-catastrophic

...but it fails to mention the positive externalities: Any idea what they are?

Unit 2: Supply side policy in Nigeria

From Aljazeera

http://bcove.me/ul7s3n33

Unit 1: China's new carbon trading sceme

Details from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-22932816# and
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-22931899#
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/22947197# video

Unit 2: The work programme; a supply side policy

Will it work? This report suggests the outlook isn't too good

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-22982321#

Unit 2: Rising consumption to increase China's economic growth?

So it would seem from this BBC clip

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-22961571#

Unit 1: Negative externalities suffered by Singapore

An unexpected story from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-22961572# 

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-22997880#

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-22998592#

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-22999205#

Unit 1: Less information failuure in the processed food market?

Maybe, if this new packaging labelling system takes off

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-22964581  video

http://news.sky.com/story/1105440/major-uk-supermarkets-launch-new-food-labels

Unit 1: Workers leaving Saudi Arabia: Decreasing potential output

Nice story from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-22903455#

Unit 2: Low taxes: a supply side policy to attract inward investment

The Irish story

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/22900671#

Unit 2: Why is the rupee depreciating?

Nice clip from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-22883816#

Unit 2: Falling real disposable incomes in the UK

Great reports from Ch4 and BBC on the link between unemployment and falling real wages

http://www.channel4.com/news/wages-institute-for-fiscal-studies-recession-downturn

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-22880983#

Unit 2: Investment in the UK

Great example of private sector infrastructure investment in the London Gateway super port (thanks to tutor2u for pointing out this FT video)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=mZ7NkJMWLtg#at=113

Unit 2: Government infrastructure spending in China

A huge desalination plant is an example of capital spending by Government

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-22851529#

Unit 2: Low taxation; a supply side policy in Singapore

Interesting clip from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-22850740#

Unit 1: Negative externalities from mining in India

As ever, the poor get shafted

http://bcove.me/mi6b1fxx

Unit 2: Tariffs and retaliation: China v EU trade war?

The EU tariffs on Chinese solar panels have provoked a retaliatory response

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-22456231 solar panels

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-22793186 wine

background from

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-22780266

Unit 1: Information failure in the painkiller market

Interesting report from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-22713043#

Unit 1: The smoking ban in public places spreads to Russia

...according to the BBC, but will it work

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-22726284#

Unit 2: Unemployment and youth unemployment data for the EU

...is bleak

http://www.channel4.com/news/youth-unemployment-spikes-across-Europe


...as is the effect on young Greeks

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-22726231#

and young Irish

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-22698740#

Unit 1: The supply curve for sugar

Great clip from the BBC explaining how Cuban sugar mills are being restarted as the world price of sugar has risen

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-latin-america-22620566#

Unit 1: Productive efficiency in the container shipping market

Container ships just seem to get bigger and bigger!

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-22568123#

Unit 1: Should the age for buying alcohol be increased to 21?

A nice post from economicshelp with good evaluation and alternative policy

http://www.economicshelp.org/blog/36/society/legal-drinking-age/

Unit 1: The start of a market economy in Cuba?

The changes announced by the Cuban government begin to take effect, as seen in this clip from Aljazeera

http://bcove.me/vgmouy97

Unit 2: The Scottish Borders railway line: Government (infrastructure) spending with supply side effects

A nice clip from the BBC with lots of economic ideas tied up in it

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-22510460#

Unit 2: Tax relief for movie production

A successful supply side policy according to this post from tutor2u

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/positive-indicators-for-the-uk-economy-may-the-force-be-with-us

Unit 2: Macroeconomic data update

.....from tutor2u

http://www.slideshare.net/tutor2u/a2-as-revision-uk-economy

Unit 1: Firm fines £50,000 for water pollution

One of the issues with regulation is enforcement; any fine for breaking the law has to be large enough to discourage others from breaking the law......like this one

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-cambridgeshire-22477788

Unit 1: Does graffiti lead to positive or negative externalities?

Interesting video from Aljazeera

http://bcove.me/u0hhbv7n

Unit 2: Protectionism from the EU: Tariffs on Chinese solar panels

An interesting story from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-22456231 video
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-22445640# article

Unit 2: Australia cuts interest rates

Interesting BBC article explaining why Australia's central bank has cut interest rates

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-22430652#

Unit 2: Policies to reduce unemployment

Thanks to tutor2u for this slideshare presentation

http://www.slideshare.net/tutor2u/policies-to-reduce-unemployment

Unit 2: Why a cut in interest rates may not stimulate investment by firms

Great evaluation from this BBC clip

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-22378705#

Unit 2: The continuing decline of the Spanish economy

....as reported by the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-22349004#

Unit 1: EU intervention in the pesticide market because of negative externality effects on bees

But, not everyone agrees with the restrictions: A case of information failure in the market?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-22338755# video
http://news.sky.com/story/1084470/bees-european-union-forces-pesticides-ban article

Unit 2: What is GDP?

Nice, simple explanation from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-22290374

Unit 1: Scotland bans cigarette displays

....and so comes in to line with the rest of the Uk according to this BBC clip. It also highlights the problem of introducing laws and regulations, namely that their has to be sufficien enforcement

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-22328177#

Unit 2: Fantastic data links

....from economicshelp

http://www.economicshelp.org/blog/7401/economics/tips-on-using-ons-data/

Unit 2: Inflation revision

A post with data and links to a lot more from tutor2u

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-inflation-april-2013-update?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+economics_news+%28tutor2u+Economics+Blog%29#When:13:35:03Z

Units 1 & 2: Key terms glossaries

...from tutor2u, BUT MY STUDENTS SHOULD BE WARY OF USING THEM AS THEY MAY NOT BE WHAT OCR REQUIRE!!!!!!

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/as-and-a2-key-term-glossaries

Unit 1: Fake bomb detectors: Information failure in markets

Thanks to tutor2u for this summary of the story

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-1-micro-information-failure-fraudulent-selling?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+economics_news+%28tutor2u+Economics+Blog%29#When:11:15:37Z

Unit 2: The costs of 27% unemployment in Spain

As reported by the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-21323642

and Aljazeera

http://bcove.me/k1hudxwk

Unit 2: UK Economy update

...courtesy of tutor2u

http://www.slideshare.net/tutor2u/a2-as-revision-uk-economy

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/files/State_of_the_UK_Economy_April_2013.pdf

Unit 2: Rising unemployment and constant inflation

...according to the BBC and the latest data, but the picture isn't that clear

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-22191013# unemployment
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-22176211# inflation

Unit 1:Problems with the EU tradable permits scheme

Thanks to tutor2u for this summary of the current problems with the scheme

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-1-micro-carbon-trading-scheme-in-crisis?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+economics_news+%28tutor2u+Economics+Blog%29#When:17:00:30Z

and this

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-1-micro-carbon-trading-scheme-in-crisis?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+economics_news+%28tutor2u+Economics+Blog%29#When:17:00:03Z

...and this video clip from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-22218733#

Unit 1: Negative externalities from illegal gold mining in Nigeria

I've highlighted this problem in an earlier post from Aljazeera. Unfortunately, it appears that things have got no better since then, according to the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-22128957#

Unit 1: Shale gas developments in China

Nice clip from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-22076969#

a) What positive and negative externalities would be associtaed with exploiting these shale gas reserves?

Unit 2: Investment: Revision

Thanks to tutor2u

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-investment-in-uk-economy-remains-low

Unit 1: Evaluating government intervention in the alcohol market

A post with good links from tutor2u

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-1-micro-evaluating-government-intervention-alcohol-pricing?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+economics_news+%28tutor2u+Economics+Blog%29#When:19:06:54Z

Unit 2: Monetary policy/Interest rates: Revision

Thanks to tutor2u

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-revision-on-interest-rates#extended

Unit 1: Rising food prices are on the way

...aacording to Sky news

http://news.sky.com/story/1074634/food-prices-set-to-soar-after-big-freeze

a) Using S&D diagrams, explain why food prices are set to rise

Unit 1: Do some pesticides have negative externalities associated with their use?

The evidence seems to show that they may be linked to the decline of bees in Britain

http://bcove.me/km5vp157 Aljazeera
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-22037200 BBC
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-22042370 BBC


a) Should the government act in the pesticide market? If so, how?

Unit 1 and Unit 2: Revision quizzes

...from tutor2u

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/as-a2-ib-economics-revision-quizzes-master-listing?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+economics_news+%28tutor2u+Economics+Blog%29#When:08:57:23Z

Unit 2: Inflation data

...from tutor2u. Good chart on a link near the bottom

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-inflation-april-2013-update

Unit 2: How can India reduce it's trade deficit?

This BBC clip outlines the problem

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-22000681#

Unit 2: EU unemployment data and articles

....courtesy of tutor2u

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-4-macro-unemployment-in-europe-march-2013-update

and economicshelp

http://www.economicshelp.org/blog/1247/economics/european-unemployment/

and the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-22000996#

Unit 2: Welfare changes April 2013

Thanks to tutor2u for this summary

https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B4SW-aHq0BqTQi1NTkFQS1pWRlE/edit?usp=sharing

and this BBC video

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-21992422#

Unit 2: Aggregate Supply: Revision

Thanks to tutor2u

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-revise-and-test-aggregate-supply

Unit 2: Aggregate Demand: Revision

Thanks to tutor2u

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-revise-and-test-aggregate-demand

Unit 2: Macro objectives and policies: Revision

Thanks to tutor2u

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-revise-and-test-macro-objectives?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+economics_news+%28tutor2u+Economics+Blog%29#When:15:00:38Z

Unit 2: GDP and National Income: Revision

Thanks to tutor2u

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-revise-and-test-national-income?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+economics_news+%28tutor2u+Economics+Blog%29#When:12:47:49Z

Unit 2: Circular flow: Revision

Thanks to tutor2u

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-revise-and-test-the-circular-flow?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+economics_news+%28tutor2u+Economics+Blog%29#When:11:52:05Z

Unit 1: New actions to reduce smoking in NY

Aljazeera report Mayor Bloomberg's latest intiative

http://bcove.me/r8cbmxpm

Unit 2: What's the difference between the National debt and the budget deficit?

The BBC explains

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-21846044#

Unit 2: Solar farms: An example of sustainable economic growth?

Nice clip from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-21830846#

Unit 2: Government budget 2013 budget

...from the Guardian

http://www.guardian.co.uk/news/datablog/2013/mar/20/budget-2013-tax-spending-visualised

Unit 2: Unemployment data

...from the Guardian, including youth unemployment data

http://www.guardian.co.uk/news/datablog/2010/nov/17/unemployment-and-employment-statistics-economics

Unit 2: Macro data charts

....from the Guardian

http://www.guardian.co.uk/news/datablog/interactive/2013/mar/20/budget-2013-charts

Unit 2: Circular flow of income diagram

Thanks to tutor2u for finding this

http://www.ons.gov.uk/ons/infographics/how-ons-statistics-explain-the-uk-economy/index.html

Unit 1: Proposed maximum sizes for fizzy drinks is ruled illegay

....in NY according to Aljazeera

http://bcove.me/kky8835j

Unit 2: Actions in the tobacco and alcohol markets in Russia

Interesting clip from Aljazeera questionning how successful regulation and higher taxes will be in altering these 2 markets in Russia

http://bcove.me/5wahyfz4

Unit 2: Filling potholes; an example of government spending

From the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-21782675

Unit 2: Exports and their role in the UK economy

Thanks to economicshelp for this post

http://www.economicshelp.org/blog/7164/trade/importance-of-exports-to-the-economy/

Unit 1: Pros and cons of minimum alcohol pricing

Thanks to economicshelp for this

http://www.economicshelp.org/blog/7130/economics/minimum-price-for-alcohol-pros-and-cons/

Unit 2: Changes to the basket of goods 2013

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-21753044# BBC
http://www.channel4.com/news/inflation-basket-cpi-rpi-champagne-rum-ons Ch4 inc weights
http://news.sky.com/story/1063525/inflation-basket-ebooks-in-champagne-out Sky

Unit 1: Changing demand for eating in France

....reports the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-21671052#

a) Using demand theory, explain the possible reasons for the changing pattern of demand for eating in France

Unit 1: Is there market failure in the processed meat market?

The evidence seems to be indicating there is......but how valid is the evidence? The BBC reports

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-21696174#

a) What type of market failure might be present in processed meat markets such as those for bacon and sausages?
b) Comment on the likely success of 2 policies the government could implement to reduce the market failure

Unit 1: Examples of elasticity in the real world

Thanks to economicshelp for this list of examples

http://www.economicshelp.org/blog/7019/economics/examples-of-elasticity/

UNit 2: Feb 2013 EU unemployment data

.....from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-21627623#

Unit 1: Correcting market failure: The polluter pays principle

Nice post from economicshelp

http://www.economicshelp.org/blog/6955/economics/polluter-pays-principle-ppp/

Unit 1: The rising price of petrol and diesel

Nice article from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-21547684#

a) Explain the 3 reasons given for the rise in prices
b) Draw a S&D diagram to show these effects
c) Describe the pattern of petrol and diesel price changes shown in the diagram

Unit 2: Welfare to work: A failing supply side policy?

It's early days, but the initial gigns aren't encouraging if you pick out the numbers from this interview with Margaret Hodge

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-21546206#

Unit 2: Who does India trade with?

Lots of data regarding India's imports and exports

http://www.guardian.co.uk/news/datablog/2013/feb/22/cameron-india-trade-exports-imports-partners

Unit 2: Investment: Dyson's new production line in Singapore

High tech to produce a quality product

http://news.sky.com/story/1055505/dyson-to-clean-up-with-new-singapore-factory

Unit 2: Types and examples of protectionism

Thanks to economicshelp for this post

http://www.economicshelp.org/blog/6911/alevel/examples-of-protectionism/

Unit 2: Latest unemployment data

....seems encouraging

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-21517854#

Unit 1: Falling demand for driving tests from the young

Thanks to tutor2u for this post

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-1-micro-falling-car-use-among-younger-drivers

Unit 1: Should we tax fizzy drinks?

A summary from tutor2u, including further links

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/taxing-fizzy-drinks-the-obesity-battle

and from economicshelp

http://www.economicshelp.org/blog/6886/economics/tax-on-sugary-soft-drinks/

and a BBC video

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-21495819#

Unit 1: Falling world demand for diamonds

...reports Sky

http://news.sky.com/story/1052527/de-beers-sales-fall-as-diamond-demand-slumps

a) Using demand theory, explain the fall in demand for diamonds
b) Using demand theory, explain why De Beers believes demand will rise in the future

Unit 1: Is there market failure in the teeth whitening business?

Possibly, if this clip is correct

http://www.bbc.co.uk/newsbeat/21446559#

a) What market failure, if any, do you believe exists in the teeth whitening market?

Unit 1: What is the equilibrium price for a US College basketball ticket?

We'll soon find out at Northwestwern University, according to Planet Money

http://www.npr.org/blogs/money/2013/02/12/171800681/hey-sportsfans-get-fired-up-for-a-uniform-price-multi-unit-dutch-auction?ft=1&f=93559255

Unit 2: CPI unchanged, but RPI increases

...according to the ONS

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-21425939#

Unit 2: The potential problem of a strong Euro

....is outlined in this BBC clip

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-21408504#

A) What costs and benefits could there be for the UK from a strong Euro

Unit 1: Is the e-cigarette market suffering from market failure?

This BBC clip raises the issue

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-21408502# video
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-21406540# article

a) What sort of market failure might be present in the e-cigarrette market
b) What government action, if any, could be aken to reduce this potential market failure?
c) To what extent would such policies be successful?

Unit 2: The circular flow of income

Thanks to tutor2u for finding this from the ONS

http://www.ons.gov.uk/ons/infographics/how-ons-statistics-explain-the-uk-economy/index.html

The interactive version, with data links to each section, is at

http://www.thinglink.com/scene/357455542404251650?buttonSource=userPage

Unit 1: Public goods: Revision

Thanks to tutor2u for this updated revision slideshow

http://www.slideshare.net/tutor2u/as-economics-public-goods

Unit 1: Specialisation: The F1 pitstop

Thanks to tutor2u for finding this BBC clip

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NOaARgQT4dk&feature=player_embedded#!

Unit 1: How regulation can reduce market failure: Paracetamol

Great clip from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-21378624# video
and
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-21370910# article

a) In what respect would the free market for paracetamol appear to fail?
b) To what extent does this legislation appear to have reduced the market failure?
c) Suggest one other action the government could take to further reduce the market failure

Unit 2: Where does UK government spending go?

Great post from economicshelp with all the data you need

http://www.economicshelp.org/blog/142/economics/what-does-the-government-spend-its-money-on/

Unit 1: Rising onion prices in India

....could be critical, report the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-21331928#

a) Using a S&D diagram, explain why onion prices have risen

Unit 2: The rising demand for meat in India

The BBC reports that the traditionally vegetarian diet is changing

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-21322499#

a) Explain the rising demand for meat usingdemand theory

Unit 2: The effect of Polish migration on the UK economy

...appears to have been significant, according to this BBC clip

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-21305026#

a) Using an AD and AS diagram, comment on the effect of Polish migration on the UK economy

Unit 2: Free trade returns to US Beef exported to Japan and Taiwan

Both countries are lfting restrictions on imprts of US produced beef

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-21288750# Japan
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-19008147 Taiwan

Unit 1: Olive oil prices to rise?

Likely, according to this BBC clip

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-21246537#

a) Using a S&D diagram, explain why the price of olive oil is likely to rise

Unit 1: Should we tax sugary drinks?

An interesting clip from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-21241944#

and Aljazeera

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I9amsrhrUaw

a) How does the market for sugar based drinks fail?
b) Using a S&D diagram, explain how the tax would help correct the market failure
c) Comment on the likely success of such a tax policy to reduce the market failure

Unit 1: Allocative efficiency: Where have resources moved out of?

Nice slide show of failed chain stores from Sky

http://news.sky.com/story/1044436/demand-for-high-street-shops-is-falling

Unit 2: What we trade and who we trade with

Data from economichelp

http://www.economicshelp.org/blog/5083/economics/what-does-the-uk-produce/

F582 scoop it boards

http://www.scoop.it/search?q=f582

http://www.scoop.it/t/unit-f582-the-national-international-economy

http://www.scoop.it/t/f582-the-national-and-international-economy

F581 scoop it boards

http://www.scoop.it/t/f581-as-micro

http://www.scoop.it/t/f581-markets-in-action

http://www.scoop.it/t/marketfailure

http://www.scoop.it/t/hamarketfailure

http://www.scoop.it/t/market-failure-negative-externalities-obesity

http://www.scoop.it/t/market-failure-negative-externalities-alcohol

http://www.scoop.it/t/econ-market-failure

Scoop it resources from Geoff Riley

http://www.scoop.it/u/geoff-riley#curatedTopicsTabSelected all boards. For AS, the 2 most useful are:

http://www.scoop.it/t/developments-in-the-uk-economy/p/3977417844/mclaren-formula-one-engineers-set-to-cash-in-on-winning-formula?sc_source=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.tutor2u.net%2Fblog%2Findex.php%2Feconomics%2Fcomments%2Fdevelopments-in-the-uk-economy2%3Futm_source%3Dfeedburner%26utm_medium%3Dfeed%26utm_campaign%3DFeed%253A%2Beconomics_news%2B%2528tutor2u%2BEconomics%2BBlog%2529%23When%3A17%3A59%3A03Z developments in the UK economy

http://www.scoop.it/t/as-macro-inflation-and-unemployment inflation and unemployment

Unit 1: The internet: A public good?

It appears not as this article illustrates

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-21164871#

a) Given the choice of public, private or quasi-public good, explain which you would choose for an internet connecton

Unit 2: The costs of economic growth in China

....are all too evident from these BBC  videos and article

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-21271656# video
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-21016180# video
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-21198265# article

Unit 1: Positive and negative externalities in Beijing

Great article from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-21198265#

a) Explain both the positive and negative externalities associated with China's rapid economic growth from the article

Unit 2: UK economy shrinks in final quarter of 2012

....reports the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-21193856# video
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-21193525# article

Unit 1: Rising affluence in China and the demand for luxury yachts

....as reported by the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-21155560#

Unit 2: The worst UK recession....ever

....as shown by this Guardian graphic

http://www.guardian.co.uk/news/datablog/interactive/2012/sep/27/recessions-compared-1930-2008

Unit 2: Unemployment data for Spain and the EU

Great data in this Sky news post, including the sky high youth unemployment rate in Spain

http://news.sky.com/story/1042210/spain-unemployment-for-under-25s-over-55-percent
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-21180371#

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T17loAkNbAs Aljazeera video

Unit 2: Unemployment falls in the UK

....reports the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-21167493# video
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-21158815# article

Unit 1: A flaw in the EU tradable permits scheme

The recession has reduced demand for the permits and so the price of pollution has fallen, according to the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-21133917#

a) Why is this price fall a problem?

Unit 2: A cost of unemployment

....to a country can be the loss of it's workers as they emigrate in search of work. The higher the unemployment rate, the more likely this is to happen

This BBC clip shows Spanish workers in Germany

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-21137326#

Unit 1: Information failure in the ecstacy market

Given that the market is illegal and therefore unregulated, there is no knowing what an ecstacy pill might contain. This clip from the BBC illustrates the extreme outcome of information failure in buying ecstacy

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-21141846#

Unit 1: Positive externalities from the smoking ban

....reports the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-21116819#

Unit 1: Electronic cigarettes; a substitute for the tobacco industry?

Thanks to tuor2u for this post

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/do-you-mind-if-i-vape-what-about-electronic-cigarettes

Unit 1: The trade off for water use in Peru

A great video from Aljazeera which can be used as an example to draw PPC's

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1SgYlZJHDv4

Unit 2: The changing composition of AD in China

Nice clip from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-21071960#

Unit 1: Legal highs; a case of information failure?

It looks like it, according to the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-21009350#

a) Comment on the possible solutions  to this market failure

Unit 2: Macro data

Tutor2u's dropbox link to their latest data

https://www.dropbox.com/s/ath670hrrfdaoha/UK%20Economy%20%E2%80%93%20Introduction%20to%20AS%20Macro%20%28.pptx

Unit1: Negative externalities: Severe smog in Beijing

...according to Aljazeera. It looks grim

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fozIONYEYCo

and the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-21016180#

Unit 2: Comparative EU unemployment data

....from this BBC video

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-20953290#

and Greece's latest data makes it worse than Spain

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-20968845#

Unit Assymetric information failure in the football pie market

Don't you love it when you find a really different example? Thanks to tutor2u for a post that combines meat pies and the esteemed Joe Stiglitz

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/paul-ormerod-meat-and-potato-pies-and-the-nobel-prize-in-economics

Unit 2: Benefit spending in the UK

Nice graphic from the Guardian

http://www.guardian.co.uk/news/datablog/2013/jan/08/uk-benefit-welfare-spending#zoomed-picture

Unit 2: How much of a problem is a balance of payments current account deficit?

I like the evaluative component (near the end) of this post from economicshelp

http://www.economicshelp.org/blog/6701/trade/importance-of-current-account-deficit/

Unit 1: A disadvantage of imposing indirect taxes on cigarettes

Smuggling! Great example from the NY Times

http://economix.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/01/10/cigarette-taxes-vs-cigarette-smuggling/

Unit 1: Allocative efficiency on the high street; the demise of Jessops and Blockbusters

All stores will close

http://news.sky.com/story/1036884/jessops-close-all-stores-1370-jobs-to-go Sky
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-20964648# BBC Jessops
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-21046548# BBC Blockbusters

a) How does the closure of Jessops/Blockbusters show allocative effficiency on the high street?

Unit 2: Fiscal policy stimulus in Japan

...reports Sky

http://news.sky.com/story/1036574/japan-unveils-huge-economic-stimulus-package

Unit 1: What should be done about the junk food market failure?

A series of tweets covering the topic

http://storify.com/MrPryer/the-junk-food-debate

Unit 1: Allocative efficiency in the magazine market; bye-bye Newsweek

So farewell to the print edition of Newsweek

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-20875125

....and readers Digest appears to be following the same path

a) How does this story reflect the idea of allocative efficiency?

Unit 1: Revision help

I've just come across these youtube videos from Enhance Tuition where they go through exam technique and answer past questions.

http://www.youtube.com/user/EnhanceTuition/videos

BUT!!!!!!! Remember this is one teacher's interpretation of the questions and the examiner's published markscheme, it is not the holy grail!

Unit 1: Reducing the negative externalities associated with food waste

A fascinating story from South Korea courtesy of Aljazeera

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F8ZdRgjrjVg

a) Comment on how successful this policy appears to be (Make sure your answer is 2 sided!)

Unit 1: The importance of substitutes on demand: The video games industry

Console sales are down, reports Sky news

http://news.sky.com/story/1033534/console-sales-plunge-as-app-gaming-takes-off

a) Explain why, using the theory of demand
b) Draw 2 demand diagrams, one showing the new demand for consoles, and the other showing demand for mobile games

Unit 1: Are flood defences a public good?

They are often cited as an example. This clip from Aljazeera allos you to judge for yourself

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sIaIH5GvkW0

a) Are these flood defences non-excluable?
b) Are these flood defences non-rival?
c) So, are these flood defences a pubic, quasi-public or private good?

Unit 2: Key terms glossary

........from tutor2u

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/unit-2-macro-key-term-glossary?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+economics_news+%28tutor2u+Economics+Blog%29#When:14:52:59Z

Unit 1: Allocative efficiency in the music market

It seems the relentless rise of digital music is not only effecting the UK, according to the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-20908845#

a) In what way does this story illustrate the concept of allocative efficiency ?

Unit 2: Entreprenneur loan scheme: A supply side imitiative

...according to Ch4 and the BBC

http://www.channel4.com/news/government-loan-scheme-to-encourage-entrepreneurs Ch4
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-20898978# BBC

a) Comment on the success of the policy so far and its likely future success in th efuture

Unit 1: Allocative efficiency in Cambridge

As the popularity of going to the pub continues to decline and pubs close, it's intersting to see the new uses they are put to. Examples in Cambridge include pubs demolished and conversions to restaurants and estate agents. This latest proposal is for conversion to student flats

http://www.cambridge-news.co.uk/News/Future-of-two-more-pubs-hangs-in-balance-02012013.htm

a) Why is this an example of allocative efficiency in the market?

Unit 2: The multiplier effect of Swansea being in the premier league

You can work it out from the data in this report from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-south-west-wales-20895147

Unit 1: Information failure in the cosmetic surgery market?

It appears so from this Ch4 report

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=SWmir7gALQ0

a) In what way is there information failure in the market?
b) Comment on the likelyhood that the suggested regulations would reduce the market failure
c) Comment on the likely success of an alternative strategy that the government could implement

Unit 2: Macroeconomic data

Thanks to tutor2u for these charts

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/as-macro-eight-chart-assignment-on-the-uk-economy?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+economics_news+%28tutor2u+Economics+Blog%29#When:10:41:52Z

and these on the key macro indicators

http://www.tutor2u.net/blog/index.php/economics/comments/prospects-for-the-uk-economy-in-2013?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+economics_news+%28tutor2u+Economics+Blog%29#When:12:22:15Z

Unit 1: Tradable (pollution) permits scheme for CO2 emissions starts in California

....reports the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-20883751#

Unit 1: Allocative effficiency at Sony

...where the BBC reports they are stopping the production of the PS2 to move resources to the rumoured forthcoming PS4

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-20875176#