The first program was called "how to build a jumbo jet engine" and focused on the efforts of the workforce in Derby to build a Rolls Royce Trent Engine that powers not only the new Boeing 787 but also the enormous Airbus A380. The history of R-R is well documented and everyone know something about them. Mostly cars I expect.
Anyway it was a heartwarming documentary for me. High technology value added manufacturing building top notch products. It is the sort of manufacturing we need to nurture and encourage in the UK. Good honest labour, design, technology and the appliance of science etc. etc. I am biased a bit because my Dad started his working life in the aerospace industry
The next program was about the RBS collapse. The Royal Bank Of Scotland famously collapsed with toxic debts of 24 billion pounds. Amongst other banks at that moment. To be fair to the RBS management the program was a hatchet job. but they did cock it up quite stupendously and as a result of the resulting bail out I am having my pension cut and my pay frozen. The galling thing is that this is the soft option. The resulting collapse of the banking system would probably have cost my home.
And then I hear complaints that we mustn't raise taxes on banks or bankers in case they leave the country and do their business else where. I argue that I am not sure we can afford to keep them!
I don't fully understand the reasons for the "Credit Crunch" but then I think that goes for those that caused the losses so I consider myself in good company.
Compare and contrast the lot of Bombardier train builders forced to sack thousands of workers as there was no bail out there. I like trains also.
I don't like bankers.
Rolls Royce were famously rescued by the Heath Government back in the 1970's. Back in those days we recognised the value of high technology manufacturing.
I know the banking industry is of great importance to this country but I just wish the industry wouldn't carp about helping to make good the mess it caused
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