CFABB | Papers and Reports
Our Papers & Reports present independent, evidence-based analysis on the urgent challenges and opportunities facing Britain.
CFABB's first paper, "In case of emergency, break glass: What to do if the UK faces a sovereign debt crisis," was published on November 6, 2025.
CFABB | In case of emergency, break glass: What to do if the UK faces a sovereign debt crisis.
In case of emergency, break glass: What to do if the UK faces a sovereign debt crisis
This paper outlines a coordinated policy response in the event of a UK sovereign debt crisis. It offers realistic options to restore market confidence, reduce spending, and lay the groundwork for sustainable growth.
Many of the recommendations in the paper, which was developed in collaboration with senior City, economic and political figures, could and should ideally be implemented now, rather than under duress.
You can download the full report here.
The paper was featured in the Financial Times and Bloomberg.
CFABB | UK State Legitimacy: Do We Live in a Democracy?
UK state legitimacy and the erosion of democratic accountability
This paper asks whether the United Kingdom’s democratic system still commands legitimacy in the eyes of its citizens. It examines how representative democracy, the rule of law, long-standing institutions, and the state’s capacity to deliver have historically underpinned British governance – and why each is now under pressure.
It examines the widening gap between electoral promises and policy outcomes, the growing influence of unelected bodies, and the implications of a changing electorate for democratic consent. Drawing on constitutional history, political theory, and contemporary case studies, it considers what must change to restore democratic accountability, public trust, and legitimacy.
You can download the full report here.
CFABB | The overlooked costs of ESG investing
The societal consequences of ESG-driven distortions
The prevailing messaging around ESG investing is agreeable at face value. Less agreeable or prominent in the discourse, however, are its negative (unintended) consequences.
This new paper examines the costs and consequences of ESG investing, and whether ESG-driven investment strategies may be distorting capital allocation, impacting pension performance, and contributing to rising costs across the economy.
It highlights how exclusionary strategies can undermine diversification and long-term returns, while also contributing to higher consumer prices, the offshoring of key/critical industries, and growing scrutiny of accountability in investment decisions.
The report calls for a more evidence-based and transparent framework, while keeping pragmatic responsible investment at the fore. An approach that prioritises fiduciary duty while recognising the real-world consequences of capital allocation.
You can download the full report here.
