The phrase “nanny state” used to be one of those automatic argument-winners, like “freedom and democracy” and “you sound like Hitler.” Nobody wants to be treated like an infant, let alone like an infant that is tied to the government’s apron strings.

The phrase is losing some of its power. Labour leader Keir Starmer recently proclaimed that he would not be deterred from launching his “child health action plan” (which includes supervised tooth brushing at school) by accusations of nannyism. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is pushing ahead with plans to ban the sale of disposable vapes (which are favored by children) and phase out smoking by 2050 despite complaints from the libertarian right of his party or its amen corner at the Institute of Economic Affairs.

QOSHE - It’s Time to Celebrate the Nanny State, Not Apologize For It - Adrian Wooldridge
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It’s Time to Celebrate the Nanny State, Not Apologize For It

10 3
05.02.2024

The phrase “nanny state” used to be one of those automatic argument-winners, like “freedom and democracy” and “you sound like Hitler.” Nobody wants to be treated like an infant, let alone........

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