We journalists are never ones to knowingly underplay a political fad. But the Tory plan to “crowdsource” the Budget? Hmm.
The case for the wisdom of crowds is compelling. But what kind of crowd will be attracted by Budget small print? On a Wednesday afternoon? And will this rabble of idlers with hours to spare be any better than the crowd of paid pointy heads at CCHQ? I have my doubts.
There is some dismay already among the ranks of Tory wonks, a sensitive bunch who rely on the odd word of praise to make up for their meagre salaries. It is hardly a vote of confidence in them. But I can’t imagine any of them are fearful of losing their jobs to an unpaid mob.
Jim Pickard
Kiran Stacey