Britain doesn’t have a productivity problem. We have a productivity mystery. The financial crisis was 17 years ago but still output per hour remains stagnant. The UK economy is predicted to grow at a slower rate than previously expected from next year, according to a November forecast by the Office for Budget Responsibility. It lowered its growth estimates to 1.4 per cent in 2026 and 1.5 per cent for the following four years. If they’re right, it could leave a huge hole in the public purse. No wonder economists and politicians are scratching their heads.

But there might be a straightforward solution to Britain’s productivity problem: more workers need to opt for a late lunch. For 15 years I’ve taken lunch at 3.30 p.m. I’m here to say that you should do the same, for yourself and your country.

With a few hours’ extra hunger in me, even a meal deal oozes flavour

First, consider what’s wrong with lunch as it is. The biggest lie in the world isn’t when a man says: ‘No, honey, your bum doesn’t look big in that.’ Or when a woman yawns: ‘I’d love to, darling, but I’m........

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