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The Local Economy = The Way Forward! Freer Spreckley, who led the discussion, pointed out that although at national level GDP had for some time been seen as the measure of wealth of a country the way it was computed gave some questionable results. For instance, if an oil tanker delivered oil to a country and in so doing caused an oil spillage, not only would the value of the oil go into the GDP figures, but so too would the cost of clearing up the spillage. Maybe a better way of looking at the picture would be to measure a country's well being, which could include such things as cultural activities,going to the theatre or rock concerts, and maybe the skills,interests, and aspirations of its citizens. Coming in at the local level, it had been shown that the more money was recycled in a locality, the more prosperous that community would become. Discussion then ensued as to how that could apply to the Golden Valley. Ideas were put forward such as using local architects and tradesmen in local building projects, ensuring that local shops and farmers markets selling local produce were supported, encouraging tourism with joined up thinking so that tourists would be aware of the many attractions and events in our area. The meeting ended on a very positive note as one of those present, Miguel, said that he was setting up a web site in January called Marches TV,which would allow tourists to do just that. Locally baked cakes and tea were enjoyed at the close of the meeting. Minutes prepared by Alan Picton, 16 November 2008 Click here to return to top of this page.
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