Qualified for the Future: Quantifying Demand for Arts, Humanities and Social Science Skills – May 2020

Graduates in the arts, humanities and social sciences are just as employable as their counterparts in STEM subjects, fuel some of the fastest-growing sectors in the UK and enjoy rewarding careers in a wide range of sectors. These are the key findings of a new British Academy report examining the employment prospects of graduates from different subject […]

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Impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic on University Finances – May 2020

Following the publication of the London Economics’ report for University and College Union on the potential impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on UK higher education institutions’ enrolments and finances, we were asked to present a summary of the analysis by higher education think-tank Wonkhe. The summary presentation providing the key findings is available to download […]

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Impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic on University Deferral Rates and Student Switching – May 2020

As part of our ongoing work with the University and College Union on university finances, London Economics commissioned YouthSight to survey undergraduate applicants to assess the potential impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on UK higher education enrolments. We asked respondents two questions about attitudes towards deferral – one relating to a ‘business as usual’ scenario […]

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The Scottish Space Cluster – May 2020

Scottish Enterprise commissioned London Economics to identify the size, capabilities, strengths, opportunities, potential growth and trends of the Scottish Space industry. Overall, the size of the Scottish Space industry is estimated at £254m in 2017/18, suggesting 12% per annum growth in real terms since 2012/13. This income supports Gross Value Added of £880m and 8,000 […]

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Impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic on University Finances – April 2020

London Economics were commissioned by the University and College Union to consider the potential impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on UK higher education institutions’ enrolments and finances. Combining the impact of the economic downturn with the expected deferral rate due to the uncertainty caused by the pandemic, compared to 2018-19 first year enrolments, approximately 232,000 […]

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Westminster Legal Policy Forum – Behavioural Research in Legal Services

Dr Ashwini Natraj presented LE’s behavioural research on consumer decision-making when searching for legal services at the Westminster Legal Forum on 25th February.

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The UK Space Sector: Insights and Opportunities – March 2020

Senior Economic Consultant, Farooq Sabri presented at “The UK Space Sector: Insights and Opportunities” held at the Silverstone Technology Cluster on 12th March 2020.   In his presentation “Growth Opportunities Across the Space Supply Chain” he highlighted key market trends for advanced manufacturing in the space sector and identified growth opportunities for UK companies. For […]

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Understanding the Economic Impact of Skills Gaps – February 2020

London Economics were commissioned by Pearson to investigate the impact of skills gaps on the performance of UK businesses using data from the 2017 Employer Skills Survey (ESS).   A skills gap exists when an employee is deemed to be not fully proficient by their employer. Using information from the 2017 Employer Skills Survey (covering […]

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The Economic and Social Impact of the University of Birmingham on the City of Guangzhou

The University of Birmingham has a long-standing history of cooperation with the Chinese city of Guangzhou, covering research, education, public health, and capacity building programmes. London Economics were commissioned to estimate the economic impact on the Chinese economy generated by the University of Birmingham’s collaborative activities in Guangzhou in these areas. Our analysis of this […]

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Economic Evaluation of the International Partnership Programme (IPP): Cost Effectiveness Analysis – October 2019

The International Partnership Programme (IPP) is a five year, £30 million per year programme run by the UK Space Agency (UKSA). IPP focuses strongly on using the UK space sector’s research and innovation strengths to deliver sustainable economic or societal benefits to emerging and developing economies around the world. The aim of this study is […]

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Economic Evaluation of the International Partnership Programme (IPP): Economic Return to the UK – October 2019

The International Partnership Programme (IPP) is a five year, £30 million per year programme run by the UK Space Agency (UKSA). IPP focuses strongly on using the UK space sector’s research and innovation strengths to deliver sustainable economic or societal benefits to emerging and developing economies around the world. his report quantifies a secondary objective […]

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Counting the Cost of the Augar Review – July 2019

Following the publication of the Augur Review in May 2019, London Economics undertook a detailed analysis of the Review’s core recommendations for higher education funding on the Treasury, universities, students and graduates. Focusing on the resource flows associated with the 2018/19 cohort of first-year English-domiciled undergraduate students (studying anywhere in the UK) and EU-domiciled students […]

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IPPR Economics Prize – Winning Entry

London Economics are delighted to announce that 7 members of our team have been awarded joint first prize in the Institute for Public Policy Research’s Economics Prize. This is the third largest prize in the economics discipline in the world, and is aimed at developing a roadmap for sustainable and inclusive growth across the United […]

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Assessing the Impact of the Augur Review – on the Exchequer, Higher Education Institutions, Students and Graduates

Following the publication of the Augur Review in May 2019, London Economics were commissioned by Universities UK to estimate the impact of the Review’s core recommendations for higher education funding on the Treasury, universities, students and graduates. Focusing on the resource flows associated with the 2018/19 cohort of first-year English-domiciled undergraduate students (studying anywhere in […]

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Fees, Funding and Fairness – Understanding and Estimating the Costs Associated with the Student Support Offer

In light of the Augar Review, London Economics were asked by AdvanceHE to present an analysis of the main issues affecting higher education fees and funding. The analysis presents some estimates of the potential impact associated with a reduction in the tuition fee level (to £7,500) as well as the reintroduction of maintenance grants.  We […]

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Wonkhe Podcast on Higher Education

Listen to London Economics discussing the implications for higher education of the March 2019 OBR Fiscal Outlook and Spring Statement, university accommodation, essay mills and HESA Data Futures: Data, housing, funding and cheating  

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The UK Tax Revenues from International Graduates – March 2019

London Economics were commissioned by the Higher Education Policy Institute (HEPI) and Kaplan International Pathways to undertake a detailed analysis of taxation receipts accrued by the United Kingdom Exchequer associated with international graduates in the UK labour market post graduation. The analysis focuses on the expected income tax, National Insurance and VAT contributions generated by the 235,325 international students commencing their studies in […]

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The Economic, Social and Cultural Impact of the University of York – January 2019

We were commissioned by the University of York to analyse its economic, social and cultural impact across the United Kingdom, focusing on the University’s activities in the 2016-17. The analysis focused on four major strands of economic impact. Specifically, in addition to the direct, indirect and induced impact associated with the University of York’s physical […]

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Impact of the ONS Review on the Deficit – December 2018

On 17th December 2018, the Office for National Statistics is expected to publish its recommendation on its review of the National Accounting treatment of student loans. This guidance will have significant consequences for the possible recommendations of the Augar Review, as well as the ability of the Government to implement any of those recommendations. Given […]

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Estimating the Costs Associated with the Student Support Offer – December 2018

Following publication in the Telegraph of some possibilities emerging from the Augar review, London Economics have estimated the economic cost associated with reducing annual tuition fees to £6,500 (with no additional Teaching grant); removing real interest rates; and reducing the repayment threshold to £21,000. The result is a £2.8 billion reduction in funding (per cohort) […]

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Fees, Funding and Fairness – Estimating the Costs Associated with the Student Support Offer – November 2018

London Economics presented an analysis of some of the factors affecting higher education fees and funding; the potential alternatives that might be possible; as well as the role of the ONS’ treatment of student loans in the National Accounts at the 2018 WONKFEST annual conference.

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Understanding the Limitations of Graduate Outcome Measures in Higher Education – September 2018

The structure and level of higher education student support funding continue to be key policy questions for the UK Government. Perceived as financially unstable, the current arrangements have recently been the subject of numerous Parliamentary reports on higher education fees and funding. In parallel to these reviews of the current structure of student support arrangements, […]

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The Economic and Social Impact of Cardiff University in 2016-17

London Economics were commission by Cardiff University to estimate their economic and social impact in 2016-17 following two previous pieces of research relating to 2012-13 and 2014-15. Teaching more than 16,315 first-year students in 2016-17, and employing 5,875 full-time equivalent staff, the total economic impact associated with Cardiff University’s activities across the UK was estimated […]

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Estimating the Returns to Part-time Undergraduate Degrees – September 2018

London Economics were commissioned by The Open University to undertake an analysis of the net graduate premium and net Exchequer benefit associated with undergraduate degrees undertaken on a part-time basis. The key findings indicated that The net graduate premium achieved by a representative English-domiciled student in the 2015-16 cohort completing a part-time undergraduate degree at […]

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Price and Service Transparency on Barristers’ Websites – Experimental Consumer Research – September 2018

The Bar Standards Board commissioned London Economics and YouGov to study consumer behaviour and attitudes towards barristers’ price and service transparency. The study used focus groups and a behavioural experiment to understand how consumers access, assess and act on price and service information when searching for barristers’ services. The Bar Standards Board will use the […]

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Press Release – Price and Service Transparency on Barristers’ Websites – Experimental Consumer Research – September 2018

The Bar Standards Board commissioned London Economics and YouGov to study consumer behaviour and attitudes towards barristers’ price and service transparency. The study used focus groups and a behavioural experiment to understand how consumers access, assess and act on price and service information when searching for barristers’ services. The Bar Standards Board will use the […]

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Estimating the Economic Impact of FDI to Support DIT’s Promotion Strategy: Analytical Report – August 2018

London Economics were commissioned by the Department for International Trade (DIT) to estimate the economic impacts of FDI on the UK economy. The results will be used by the DIT to support their value-based investment promotion strategy. The analysis was undertaken in partnership with the DIT and academics at the University of Nottingham. It explored […]

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Estimating the Costs Associated with the Student Support Offer – July 2018

London Economics recently presented an analysis of the current higher education fees and funding arrangements – and possible alternatives – at the Wonkhe conference “Proceed with Caution”. The full presentation is available here.

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Value of Satellite-derived Earth Observation Capabilities to the UK Government Today and by 2020 – July 2018

London Economics were commissioned by Innovate UK to evidence the current and near-term potential value of satellite-derived Earth Observation (EO) capabilities to the UK government for civil and domestic purposes. The subsequent value to industry as a supplier of EO data and applications to UK government is also investigated. Using a combination of desk-based research […]

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Single Digital Gateway: How EU Could Meet Expectations of Citizens and Businesses? – March 2018

A briefing by Dr Charlotte Duke for the European Commission on behalf of the Internal Market and Consumer Protection Committee on the European Commission’s proposed regulation for a Single Digital Gateway.

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Economic Evaluation of the Space for Smarter Government Programme (SSGP)

This study assesses the economic impact of the UK Space Agency’s Space for Smarter Government Programme (SSGP) on industry (as contract recipients) and government (as end users). Potential benefits to public sector amount to over £40 million per annum, including operational cost savings (£27.8 million), exceptional cost avoidance (£9.2 million) and catalytic benefits (£4.1 million). […]

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The Costs of Amending Student Support Arrangements – February 2018

With the potential review of higher education approaching, London Economics have modelled the costs to the Exchequer associated with a reduction in tuition fees to £6,000 and the re-introduction of maintenance grants. The analysis demonstrates that the cost of cutting fees stands at £1.169 billion per cohort, while maintenance grants cost £360 million. Importantly, despite […]

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Estimating the Costs Associated with the Student Support Offer – February 2018

With the potential review of higher education approaching, London Economics have undertaken further modelling of the costs to the Exchequer associated with amending the interest charged on student loans, as well as the abolition of tuition fees. The analysis demonstrates that charging a 0% real rate of interest during study would cost the Exchequer £230 million per […]

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Research into the Experiences and Effectiveness of Solicitors’ First Tier Complaints Handling Processes – January 2018

The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) and Legal Ombudsman jointly commissioned London Economics and YouGov to undertake research into solicitors’ handling of first tier complaints. The study used a consumer survey, a survey of firms and depth interviews with firms and consumers, to understand consumers’ and solicitors’ experiences of the complaints process. The research identified recommended […]

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The Costs and Benefits of International Students by Parliamentary Constituency – January 2018

Given the continuing political debate about the inclusion of international students in UK migration targets, and the limited number of analyses of their net economic impact to date, London Economics were commissioned by the Higher Education Policy Institute (HEPI) and Kaplan International Pathways to undertake a detailed analysis of both the benefits and costs to […]

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Statistical Background Information for the Independent Review of the Funding of Debt Advice in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland – January 2018

London Economics was commissioned by the Independent Review of the Funding of Debt Advice in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland to provide an extensive statistical background document describing development of household debt at both a macro and micro level, the problems that high debt levels cause for individuals and households, the supply of debt […]

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Consumer Behaviour Research for Legal Services – December 2017

The Law Society commissioned London Economics to undertake behavioural economic research into how consumers search for legal services. The study used a behavioural experiment, focus groups and depth interviews to investigate how consumers access, assess and act on information. The research helped the Law Society to better understand the most useful information that solicitors can […]

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The Economic Impact of Russell Group Universities – November 2017

London Economics were commissioned by the Russell Group to undertake an analysis of the economic contribution of their 24 members universities to the UK economy in 2015-16. The analysis estimated the impact associated with Teaching and Learning activity (here), world-class research (here), educational exports (here) and the direct, indirect and induced impact associated with the […]

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Reforming Student Finance to Increase Fairness and Widen Access – November 2017

London Economics was commissioned by the Sutton Trust to analyse the cost to graduates, higher education institutions and the Exchequer associated with a range of student support scenarios, including combinations of: means-tested tuition fees based on household income; the re-introduction of maintenance grants to 2015/16 levels before their abolition; and changes to the interest rates […]

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Economic Impact Evaluation of the Enterprise Finance Guarantee (EFG) Scheme – November 2017

London Economics was commissioned by the British Business Bank to evaluate the Enterprise Finance Guarantee (EFG) scheme. The evaluation estimated the economic impact created by the EFG scheme, and provided a detailed cost benefit analysis which established the economic gains of the scheme to the UK economy. The main analysis was complemented by a survey […]

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Analysis of the Potential Economic Impact of GDPR – October 2017

This study examines the potential economic impact of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in relation to the ambiguities created by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) guidance on consent. Two elements of the guidance are analysed in detail: the prohibition of any form of opt-out consent and the requirement to name all third-parties that will […]

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Nanosatellite Telecommunications: A Market and System Study for Machine-to-Machine Applications

The emergence of Machine-to-Machine (M2M) and Internet of Things (IoT) applications to enable monitoring and control of remote assets has created a demand for low-cost satellite communications to provide global connectivity. Markets such as maritime, energy, logistics, transport and healthcare could considerably benefit from M2M applications. However, as this is an emerging domain, market demand […]

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The Impact of Student Loan Repayments on Graduate Taxes – July 2017

London Economics were commissioned by the University and College Union to assess the lifetime costs to higher education students associated with receiving and repaying student loans provided by Student Finance England. In addition to assessing the loan balance on graduation and repayments made, the analysis estimates the effective average and marginal tax rates associated with […]

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The Economic Impact on the UK of a Disruption to GNSS

GNSS provide signals from satellites orbiting in space to give us accurate information on positioning, navigation and timing. These systems have a large range of uses but, until now, the economic benefits have not always been well understood. This study aims to provide an answer in terms of estimated economic impact of a five day […]

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The Economic, Social and Cultural Impact of the University of Birmingham – March 2017

London Economics were commissioned by the University of Birmingham to undertake an analysis of the university’s economic, social and cultural impact. The study considered the economic impact of teaching and learning, research activities, educational exports, as well as the direct, indirect and induced impact generated by the university and its students throughout the local, regional […]

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The Determinants of International Demand for UK Higher Education – January 2017

London Economics were commissioned by the Higher Education Policy Institute and Kaplan International Pathways to undertake an analysis of the international determinants of UK higher education enrolments. The analysis illustrates the impact of macroeconomic factors (such as a currency depreciation or overseas economic growth), institutional factors (such as UK and US fee levels) and policy […]

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The Determinants of University Selection – January 2017

Read London Economics’ research brief on the determinants of university selection. The analysis considers the relative importance of fees and funding on the selection of universities, as well as the role of other characteristics (such as rankings). The report also highlights students’ willingness to pay for different university attributes.

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The Use of Behavioural Insights in Consumer Policy – January 2017

The OECD has published its report on the use of Behavioural Economics in Consumer Policy. The report is informed by discussion at the OECD’s Behavioural Economics Roundtable, at which LE’s Dr Charlotte Duke was an invited speaker on her experience in using behavioural economics to test and design consumer policy.

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Development of the Scottish Space Industry – December 2016

Scottish Enterprise commissioned London Economics to support their work to develop the Scottish space industry. The objective of the study was to answer two key questions: Where is the Scottish space economy at present: in an absolute sense; and in comparison with the UK and global space economy? Where could, and should, the Scottish space […]

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The Size & Health of the UK Space Industry 2016

Every two years, the UK Space Agency studies all organisations in the UK who supply and/or make use of space or satellite services – from upstream manufacturing right through to downstream satellite-enabled applications, including both commercial and non-commercial activities. The series of studies, titled the Size and Health of the UK Space Industry, represents the […]

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The Economic and Social Impact of Cardiff University in 2014-15 – Press Release – November 2016

London Economics were commissioned by Cardiff University to undertake an analysis of the university’s economic and social impact. The Press Release issued by Cardiff University can be accessed on the link above.

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The Economic and Social Impact of Cardiff University in 2014-15 – Full Report – November 2016

London Economics were commissioned by Cardiff University to undertake an analysis of the university’s economic and social impact. The full report assessing the economic impact of teaching and learning, research, education exports, and the direct, indirect and induced impact generated by Cardiff University can be accessed on the link above.

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Consumer Vulnerability Across Key Markets in the EU: Animated Infographic – November 2016

Following the publication of London Economics’ study into consumer vulnerability across the EU for DG Justice and Consumers, the European Commission has released an animated infographic which presents the key findings of the study, including the varying impact of vulnerability drivers across key markets.

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Modern Transport Bill / Spaceflight Regulation Impact Assessment Analysis

London Economics provided on-site analytical support to the UK Space Agency to evaluate the economic and internal resource implications of regulating spaceflight in the UK. This included support to a cross-government Impact Assessment of the Modern Transport Bill, a report which was awarded the highest “green” rating for quality, and analysis of the impact of a […]

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Economic Analysis of Higher Education Fees and Funding in the Health Professions – June 2016

Following the publication of the recent report on behalf of UNISON and the National Union of Students (here), we have added a short note providing some additional discussion relating to the modelling undertaken and evidence underpinning the analysis. The note is available on the link above.

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The Impact of the 2015 Comprehensive Spending Review on Higher Education Fees and Funding Arrangements in Subjects Allied to Medicine – May 2016

London Economics were commissioned by UINISON and the NUS to undertake an independent analysis of the impact of the removal of NHS bursaries on prospective students in Allied Health Professions announced in the 2015 Comprehensive Spending Review. The analysis considers the resource flows between the Exchequer, Higher Education Institutions and students/ graduates. Having been launched […]

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Ofwat Vulnerability Focus Report – February 2016

Ofwat’s Vulnerability Focus report with supporting research by London Economics finds that vulnerability can take many forms, people can move in and out of vulnerability and anyone can find themselves in vulnerable circumstances at times in their life. The report is accompanied by a practitioners’ pack that aims to help water companies to identify customers […]

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Understanding Consumer Vulnerability in the EU’s Key Markets – February 2016

This study for the European Commission provides a new definition of vulnerable consumers, a new methodology for measuring consumer vulnerability and new insights into the actual patterns of consumer vulnerability. The large scale study employed stakeholder consultations, consumer surveys, focus groups and behavioural experiments across the EU28 plus Iceland and Norway.

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FCA Symposium: Competition Analysis with Realistic Behaviour – December 2015

LE’s Charlotte Duke participated in the FCA symposium: competition analysis with realistic behaviour. This forum brought together senior thinkers, researchers and policy makers to discuss the promotion of competition in financial services. During the day, delegates focussed on the research being done on Behavioural Industrial Organisation (BIO).

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FCA Forum: Competition Analysis with Realistic Behaviour – Forthcoming Event in December 2015

London Economics’ Dr Charlotte Duke will be speaking at this forthcoming event on Behavioural Industrial Organization and how best to design policy interventions and improve competition. Further information and registration for the event can be found above.

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Return from Public Space Investments: An Initial Analysis of Evidence – November 2015

To support the ongoing development of an evidence-based framework for evaluation and appraisal of their funding and activities, the UK Space Agency commissioned London Economics to conduct an assessment of the evidence on the returns to public investments in the space sector. This report presents the findings of this exercise. Note: Some confidential information obtained […]

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Consumer Testing Study of the Possible New Format and Content for Retail Disclosures of Packaged Retail and Insurance-based Investment Products – November 2015

The European Commission commissioned London Economics and Ipsos to undertake consumer testing of various ways of presenting information relating to Packaged Retail and Insurance‐based Investment Products (PRIIPs). The motivation for the study was to assess which particular format of Key Information Documents would best help consumers compare and select products for their investment needs. The […]

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Mind the Gap: Comparing Public Funding in Higher and Further Education – November 2015

London Economics were commissioned by the University and College Union to undertake a forensic analysis of the public funding associated with Higher and Further Education across the Home Nations of the United Kingdom. The analysis demonstrates the significant differences in public funding between the different education paths in England, but also the fundamental differences across […]

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Evaluation of the Impact and Cost-effectiveness of UKTI’s Support for Events – November 2015

UKTI’s Events programme consists of wide range of support activities, including lectures and workshops on specific industries/markets, overseas market visits, meetings and networking opportunities with business delegations, etc. The project assessed the net financial benefit of the programme, wider qualitative benefits accruing to participating businesses, and participants’ willingness to pay for attending events. The evidence […]

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An Assessment of Open to Export – November 2015

LE evaluated the impact of Open to Export, a website supported by UK Trade & Investment that functions as an electronic intermediary, connecting businesses with other businesses, organisations and official sources of information and assistance, including UK Trade & Investment. The study collected information through interviews with six selected “service providers” and a structured telephone […]

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Satellite Technologies in UK Agriculture – November 2015

A Pathfinder study funded under the National Space Technology Programme (NSTP) The need for sustainable, efficient and cost-effective methods of farming has never been more pressing. As the global population continues to rise, the challenge to meet global food demands in a sustainable manner is becoming increasingly important. At the same time, farmers are being […]

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The Economic and Social Impact of Cardiff University – October 2015

London Economics undertook an in-depth economic impact analysis on behalf of Cardiff University. The analysis considered the economic  and social impact  of the university on the UK economy covering teaching and learning activities, research, the direct, indirect and  induced effect associated with the university’s physical footprint, as well as its contribution to exports arising from […]

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Using Behavioural Economics: Practical Examples – Behavioural Economics and Psychological Choices – August 2015

Presented at a practitioners’ summer workshop this presentation explores how behavioural economics is being used in policy-making and understanding of consumer behaviour in markets. Explains what behavioural experiments are and provides examples of how behavioural studies conducted by London Economics have been used to inform policy making. The presentation then provides guidance on what to […]

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UK Space Conference 2015: ‘The Space Value-chain Explained’

Liverpool, Tuesday 14th July – London Economics presented on ‘The space value-chain explained’ during the Opportunities for Business session at the UK Space Conference 2015. The slides introduce the definitions, value chain and some key findings of our report ‘The Case for Space 2015’, which was launched at the conference.

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The Case for Space 2015 – July 2015

The UK space industry’s annual value grew to £11.8 billion in 2012-13, having grown at an average compound rate of 8.6% year-on-year since 2008-09, with a productivity some 3 times the UK average, according to The Case for Space 2015 report produced by London Economics and launched 14th July at the UK Space Conference. The […]

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Media Coverage: ‘The Case for Space 2015’ – July 2015

FT Video: UK space start-ups take off Jul 17, 2015: Peggy Hollinger looks at the booming UK space industry and meets companies making the next generation of propulsion engines and satellites. http://video.ft.com/4360019278001/UK-space-start-ups-take-off/Companies   FT: UK eager to claim its share at the final frontier Jul 17, 2015: Peggy Hollinger, Industry Editor http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/cfc0c360-2c1a-11e5-acfb-cbd2e1c81cca.html#axzz3gipoAvId   FT: UK […]

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Survey of UK Farmers on Their Use of Satellite-enabled Agri-tech – June 2015

London Economics, in collaboration with the Satellite Applications Catapult, has launched a survey of UK farmers on their use of certain types of technology on their farms, specifically satellite-enabled technologies. This survey will inform ongoing research that seeks to identify ways to facilitate the adoption of these technologies which can make farming more efficient, improve crop yield, and reduce […]

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The Death of the Saturday Job – June 2015

Read London Economics’ report for the UK Commission of Employment and Skills on the extent of young people combining work with study.

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Future of Paying for Social Care in Wales – Second Report – May 2015

The Welsh Government has committed to introduce reform of the arrangements for paying for social care in Wales. As part of the policy development process, the Welsh Government commissioned LE Wales to undertake an independent research study on the future of paying for care in Wales. The work produced material for the Welsh Government providing […]

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Delivering Value from the Higher Education Estate – April 2015

The Association of University Directors of Estates (AUDE) has published the report ‘Delivering Value from the Higher Education Estate’ produced by Kilner Planning and London Economics. Delivering value from the estate is a core element of the Phase II Review of Sir Ian Diamond’s review into Efficiency and Effectiveness in Higher Education. The report documents […]

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The Impact of the Minimum Wage on Young People – March 2015

London Economics were asked by the Low Pay Commission to undertake an analysis of the impact of the recent slowdown and freeze in the national minimum wage on young people’s earnings and employment outcomes.

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The Earnings and Employment Returns to A Levels – March 2015

London Economics were commissioned by the Department for Education to analyse the returns to A levels. The core results indicated that compared to GCSEs/O levels, there are strong positive wage returns to A levels – irrespective of whether the individual goes on to complete further or higher qualifications. The full report is available here.

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Study on the Coverage, Functioning and Consumer Use of Comparison Tools and Third-party Verification Schemes for Such Tools – March 2015

The European Commission has published the study on consumers’ use of comparison tools. As part of the study London Economics completed a behavioural experiment in 15 EU countries that investigated consumer understanding and use comparison tools. The study forms part of the evidence base used by the Commission to develop, together with stakeholders, a series […]

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Managing Money Online – Working As Well As We Think? – February 2015

This study for the Keep Me Posted Campaign implemented a behavioural experiment and consumer survey in order to analyse consumers’ behaviour and perceptions when they receive transactional mail either by post or electronically.

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Economic Analysis of Business Models for Open Access Monographs – January 2015

The report looks at existing and emerging business models for open-access publishing of scholarly monographs (including scholarly editions, edited volumes and catalogues). A typology of business models is developed based on institutional setup, incentives for the participating parties and revenue sources. The analysis is informed by theoretical considerations and interviews with publishers and academics in […]

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Finance and Commercial ‘NewSpace’ Opportunities: A Potential Role for London in Bridging the Gap – November 2014

Reinventing Space is an annual conference that has been taking place since 2001, dedicated to the responsive space sector. The British Interplanetary Society (BIS) organised this year’s conference in The Royal Society, London – the 12th edition and the first time that Reinventing Space has been held outside of the United States. The theme of […]

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Competition and Collaboration in UK Payment Systems – November 2014

The report focuses on UK payment systems, with a particular focus on interbank payment systems.  It analyses the conditions for competition at different levels of the payments supply chain as well as the motivations, merits and potential drawbacks of collaboration among market participants.

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The Size & Health of the UK Space Industry 2014 – October 2014

Since 1992, the UK Space Agency has been periodically surveying the UK space sector, and places a great deal of emphasis on the results of this study as a measure of industry performance. The UK Space Agency contracted London Economics to conduct the 2014 edition, covering the years 2011/12 and 2012/13. The objectives of the […]

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The Handbook of Competition Economics 2015 – UK – October 2014

The article reviews 2013-14 developments in the competition area in the UK.

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Metrics and Models Used to Assess Company and Investment Performance – October 2014

The Kay Review found that the growth of intermediation and principal-agent relationships in the investment chain have led to an increased reliance on metrics and models to measure performance of companies and investment portfolios. Professor Kay argued that these measurements may be inherently unsuitable for investors with long-term investment horizons, and suggested that the presence […]

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Scaling Up Solutions to Social Care – October 2014

The UK is facing a funding crisis in social care for older people. Demographic changes mean that between 2010 and 2022 the population of people aged 65 and over is expected to grow by 27% and the number of people aged 85 and over is projected to grow by 44%. Research suggests that, just to […]

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Reaching Higher: Reforming Student Loans to Broaden Access to Postgraduate Study – October 2014

London Economics were commissioned by the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) to model the costs to the Exchequer associated with the introduction of a loan scheme for postgraduate students.

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Projects Fit for Purpose: Delivering More with Less in the Public Sector – September 2014

London Economics were commissioned by the Project Management Institute (PMI) to conduct an exploratory study of success factors in public sector project and programme management in the United Kingdom. The study forms part of PMI’s ongoing effort to understand what works in project management globally and to make these insights available to policymakers, project managers […]

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Ticket Retailing Code of Practice – What Information is Relevant – September 2014

This study for the Office of Rail Regulation sets out to examine what information is important to passengers when choosing and buying rail tickets, what information passengers need in order to make informed decisions when selecting tickets, and how and when this information should be provided. The research is based on an online survey and […]

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Cheating Risk from Online Essays – September 2014

London Economics were commissioned by Ofqual to undertake a mystery shopping exercise of ‘student support’ services available online. To undertake the independent research, London Economics engaged with a number of online companies who offer to write essays for students. The commissioned essays were passed on to experts at Ofqual for subsequent marking, which demonstrated that, […]

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Study on the Impact of the EU Energy Label – and Potential Changes to It – on Consumer Understanding and Purchase Decisions – August 2014

As part of the review of the EU Directive on Energy Labels, the European Commission engaged London Economics to undertake a behavioural study on consumer understanding and purchasing decisions, of the current EU energy label and potential changes to it. Interim findings were presented to the 3rd Stakeholder meeting on the Evaluation of the Energy […]

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Behavioural Economics in Retail Financial Services: Training Workshop, 30th September 2014, Central London

The London Economics’ Behavioural and Financial Services teams will provide a training workshop on the application of behavioural economics to retail finance. The course will address: The underlying principles of behavioural economics; Regulators’ understanding and use of behavioural economics; How behavioural economics is applied in retail financial services ; and, how to design, apply and […]

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Using Behavioural Economics: Practical Examples – August 2014

A presentation to practitioners at the Copenhagen Summer University. Explores how behavioural insights are being used by policy makers. Examples of behavioural studies used by regulators, and discusses the issues to consider when commissioning and designing experiments. The presentation also provides suggested papers illustrating the use of behavioural approaches and additional applied examples.

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Assessing Value for Money in Sixth Form Education – June 2014

London Economics were commissioned by the Association of Sixth Form Colleges to undertake a detailed analysis of the value for money in Sixth Form education in England. Based on a number of merged data sets, the analysis demonstrated the exceptionally strong attainment outcomes achieved by students attending Sixth Form Colleges, as well as the superior […]

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Direct and Indirect Regulatory Costs Faced by UK Insurance Brokers – May 2014

The study for the British Insurance Brokers’ Association (BIBA) quantifies direct regulatory costs faced by insurance brokers in 23 different jurisdictions and shows that such costs are the highest the UK and that regulatory fees and levies in the UK are more than five times those in New York, Japan, France and Germany. The research […]

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2014 Survey of the Size and Health of the UK Space Industry – April 2014

London Economics have been selected to undertake the 2014 study of the Size and Health of the UK Space Industry on behalf of the UK Space Agency. An introductory letter from the Chief Executive of the UK Space Agency is available via the link above. All organisations active in the UK who supply, or make […]

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Higher Education Fees and Funding Reforms in England: What is the Breakeven RAB Charge for the Treasury?

London Economics’ Research Brief considers the costs of the higher education fees and funding reforms in England. In this analysis, the term “break-even” refers to the point at which the estimated costs to the Treasury resulting from the 2012-13 higher education reforms have the same long run economic cost as the fees and funding system […]

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General Insurance Add-ons: Experimental Consumer Research Report

Behavioural experiment by London Economics which formed part of the FCA’s Add-on Insurance Market Study. The experiment with 1,500 UK residents tested for common patterns of consumer behaviour that arise due to add-on insurance mechanisms and assessed how insurance add-ons may lead to poor outcomes for consumers in these markets.

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An International Comparison of Apprentice Pay

London Economics were commissioned by the Low Pay Commission to undertake an investigation of the level of apprenticeship pay across fourteen countries. Covering a range of countries with different educational and apprenticeship systems, the main focus of the analysis relates to the assessment of apprentice pay (adjusted for price differences across countries) as a proportion […]

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Financial Conduct Authority Practical Use of Behavioural Experiments in Financial Regulation – March 2014

The Financial Conduct Authority finds that behavioural experiments have an important role to play in financial regulation, and often provide insights into the ways markets work that may not be possible otherwise. Download the paper on the practical application of behavioural experiments in financial regulation jointly authored by London Economics and the FCA.

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New Specialist Sources of Capital for the Social Investment Market – April 2014

This study, conducted jointly with The Social Investment Consultancy, examines potential sources of capital for the social investment market among eight previously under-researched institutional investor groups. It identifies two sets of opportunities for the UK’s growing investment market: –  risk finance capital to support UK social sector organisations, estimated at circa £500m; and –  a […]

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Using Behavioural Experiments to Identify Consumer Problems in Markets: Partitioned Pricing Practices

This presentation at the OFT’s Economic Seminar series, considers how behavioural experiments can be used to identify problems consumers can have in markets and details an experiment completed for the OFT on partitioned pricing, the practice of splitting prices into parts. The study identifies that these pricing practices can reduce consumer welfare and lead to […]

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Survival or Relegation? The Impact of a Managerial Change in the Premier League

London Economics calculates the economic impact of a managerial change in the Premier League. The research is one of the first studies ever to accurately quantify the impact of manager changes in football. The analysis concentrates on the impact over 10 games and, crucially, it accounts for other factors that are likely to affect team […]

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The Economic and Societal Benefits Deriving from the Presence of Hyundai and Kia in Europe (update)

London Economics published updated figures on the contribution of Hyundai and Kia to the European economy. The key findings are: Almost 317,000 people owe their jobs to the presence of Hyundai and Kia in the European Union Hyundai and Kia contributed €2.1 billion in taxes and duties to European governments in 2012 The majority of […]

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Modelling the Impact of Proposed Policies on Pubs and the Pub Sector

This report to the Department for Business Innovation and Skills provides an independent analysis of the impact of the consultation proposals on gross and net pub closures and employment levels within the pub industry, using whatever robust evidence can be accessed, to inform the final stage impact assessment of the likely costs and benefits of […]

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Using Behavioural Experiments to Inform Consumer Policy in Financial Markets

A presentation at the Behavioural Finance Working Group conference, practitioners session on behavioural economics applied to finance markets. This presentation looks at applied policy examples of behavioural experiments relevant to consumer decision making in regard to financial products.

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Impacts of Second Level Domain Registration (SLDR) in the .uk Domain Space

London Economics advised Nominet, the UK domain name registry, on the potential direct and indirect impacts of introducing of second-level (“.uk”) domain name registration in the UK. We advised Nominet on impacts as the form of their proposal changed in response to inputs from stakeholders. We used existing data and evidence sources to qualitatively describe […]

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Partitioned Pricing Research: A Behavioural Experiment

London Economics was commissioned by the Office of Fair Trading to undertake a behavioural economics study into how partitioned pricing, which is the practice of splitting the price of a good or service into multiple components, affects consumer decision making. The study builds upon earlier research by London Economics for the OFT on the impact […]

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How Much Does Size Matter? – A Comment on the English and Welsh Prison Estate

In the light of the recent announcement by the MoJ of its plan to build a 2,000 prison at Wrexham, and the report from the think tank Policy Exchange[1] arguing that £10 billion could be saved over 25 years by restructuring the prison estate, we analyse what the data shows and what it suggests in […]

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The Outcomes Associated with the BTEC Route of Degree Level Acquisition

London Economics’ were commissioned by Pearson to undertake research on role of BTECs in offering pathways into higher education. The analysis was based on Labour Force Survey data over 16 years and assessed the outcomes in university achieved by learners with BTEC qualifications, as well as the outcomes of these learners in the labour market […]

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Higher Education Funding in England: Do the Alternatives Add Up?

Amid questions about the sustainability of the Coalition Government’s reforms to higher education funding in England, a new report from the university think-tank million+ and London Economics, Higher education funding in England: do the alternatives add up? reviews the costs and benefits of two alternative funding proposals that have been put forward. The first alternative […]

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The Impact of a Financial Transaction Tax on Corporate and Sovereign Debt

Commissioned on behalf of the International Regulatory Strategy Group and authored by London Economics, this paper examines the impact of the European Commission’s proposed financial transaction tax (FTT) on corporate and sovereign debt markets. The research quantifies the additional cost the FTT is likely to impose on corporates and sovereigns using debt security markets to […]

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The Impact of the EU Financial Transactions Tax on the Real Economy – Analysis of the Impact on Corporate and Sovereign Bonds

This Financial services and capital markets briefs highlights the significance of the proposed EU financial transactions tax (FTT) to the real economy. The FTT rates are small – 0.1% on equities and bonds and 0.01% on derivatives. However, the associated total tax burden may be significant through a number‐of‐transactions effect (as securities are traded frequently) […]

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Secondary Analysis of 24 Waves of PIMS

London Economics performed a statistical and econometric analysis of data from 24 waves (6 years) of the UKTI Performance and Impact Monitoring Survey (PIMS). Probit models were fitted to explore the determinants of firm-level outcome measures including financial and qualitative benefits such as improved business performance and productivity. The analysis identified the quality of the […]

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What’s the Value of a UK Degree?

In partnership with London Economics, University think-tank million+ publishes a new report “What’s the Value of a UK Degree?”. The report brings together information assessing the rates of return for the Treasury, taxpayers and individuals arising from investment in higher education.

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Differential Price Responsiveness Among Drinker Types

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Evaluation of the Impact and Cost Effectiveness of UKTI’s Regional Network Support

The study examined the impact and efficiency of the delivery of the services provided by UKTI’s regional network. The export support activities of UKTI’s regional teams are delivered by International Trade Advisers (ITAs) under contract, with different set ups being used across the nine English regions. The study explores the drivers of ITAs’ performance by […]

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Economic Impact Assessments of Proposals for Computer Trading

The report provides an evidence-based analysis of a number of proposals targeted at computer trading within financial markets, with some of these measures having been included in the European Commission’s proposal for a revised Directive on markets in financial instruments (MiFID II). These measures include: increasing tick sizes and introducing control by regulators of algorithms, […]

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Consumer Research for Cost-Benefit Analysis of Digital Radio Switch Over: A Supplementary Report to DCMS

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport has published the report “Consumer research for Cost-Benefit Analysis of Digital Radio Switch over: A supplementary report to DCMS” by London Economics in association with YouGov. The study presents results of supplementary research undertaken in 2012 into consumers’ willingness to pay for digital radio, building on London Economics’ […]

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Estimation of Consumers’ Priorities for Quality-of-service in Post: Recent Evidence from France

20th CPDE, Brighton, UK.

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Assessing the Deadweight Loss and Additionality Associated with Public Investment in Education and Skills

London Economics were commissioned by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills to undertake an analysis aimed at improving the current assessment of deadweight loss in the Further Education and Skills arena, where deadweight loss is defined as the extent to which government-funded training generates outcomes that are not additional to what would have occurred […]

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The Impact of Investment in Intangible Assets on Productivity Spillovers

London Economics were commissioned by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills to conduct a literature review of the evidence regarding the impact of investment in intangible assets on productivity spillovers. The review provides a summary of the theory underpinning the concepts of intangible assets, their measurement, as well as the theory of spillovers. We […]

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Estimating the Impact of Training on Productivity Using Firm-level Data

London Economics were commissioned by the Department for Business Innovation and Skills to undertake an assessment of the impact of publicly funded training on firm-level productivity. Firm-level analysis has traditionally been hampered by a lack of reliable and comprehensive data. For the first time in the UK, a matched employer-employee dataset with information on government […]

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Estimating the Impact of Wind Generation on Balancing Costs in the GB Electricity Markets

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The Impact of Competition Interventions on Compliance and Deterrence – A Controlled Economic Experiment

A study by London Economics for the UK Office of Fair Trading Presentation at the University of Amsterdam, Centre for Law and Economics, Behavioural Competition and Regulation, April 19, 2012.

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Evaluation of the Fiscal Stimulus Initiative

UKTI’s Fiscal Stimulus Initiative was a programme aimed at facilitating access to opportunities created by fiscal stimulus measures around the world in the wake of the global financial crisis of 2008/09. The project evaluated the performance of the programme and the effectiveness of the chosen implementation through consultations with UKTI specialists in the UK and […]

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The Role of Packaging Imagery on Consumer Preferences for Experience Goods – Report

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Potential Impacts of Stamp Price Increases: Consumer Research

Consumer Focus has published the report by London Economics “Potential impacts of stamp price increases: Consumer research”. The study examines how consumers might react to stamp price increases in the context of potential rises following Ofcom’s Royal Mail price control, using an online choice experiment methodology. In particular, we analyse the extent to which consumers […]

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Debt Advice in the UK

This study describes the current debt landscape in the UK and highlights information gaps for further exploration. It consists of a comprehensive review of existing debt advice literature and research materials, supplemented by consultation with a wide range of stakeholders.

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Funding Debt Advice in the UK – A Proposed Model

The Money Advice Service (MAS) commissioned London Economics to examine how the costs of debt advice work undertaken by MAS could be allocated across a spectrum of creditors, whilst also considering the allocation of the debt advice costs within the current FSA fee blocks. The study concludes that Bank of England data on lending to […]

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Sequential Group Lending: A Mechanism to Raise the Repayment Rate in Microfinance. Economica.

Sinn, Miriam (forthcoming)

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The Impact of Competition Interventions on Compliance and Deterrence

The research, which consisted of a survey of more than 500 large companies and 300 SMEs, as well as a small survey of specialist competition advisers in legal firms, estimates that for each abuse of dominance case, 12 potential infringements are deterred; for each cartel case, 28 potential infringements are deterred and for each commercial […]

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Economic Outlook: How is the Current Financial and Economic Situation Affecting Consumers, Debtors and Creditors

This analysis by London Economics offers new insights into the current economic crisis. Key economic indicators suggest recovery long way off. In previous UK recessions, output recovered relatively quickly after modest falls. This recession is deeper and longer lasting that previous recessions, with no recovery in sight. Growth between 2005 and 2008 was driven by […]

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Estimating the Value of Lost Load (VoLL)

This report for Ofgem estimates the Value of Lost Load (VoLL) for domestic and SME, industrial and commercial (I&C), and electricity producing gas consumers. VoLL represents the value that gas users attribute to security of gas supply and the estimates could be used to provide a price signal about the adequate level of security of […]

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Consumer Information on Broadband Speed and Net Neutrality Experiment

Ofcom has published the report by London Economics “Consumer information on Broadband Net Neutrality”. This study uses an economic experiment and behavioural economics to test the impact on consumers’ internet package choice of how information about packages is presented. Participants in the experiment were faced with different information frames, including the use of colour coding […]

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Evaluation of Commercial Services Provided by UKTI Overseas Posts

The study investigates 1) the scope for increased cost recovery from the services in support of UK-based exporters offered by UKTI’s overseas posts and 2) the structure of the market for these services, including the existence of synergies between UKTI’s overseas posts and other providers of services to UK exporters, such as consultants, business associations, […]

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Review of Company Surveys of Consumer Willingness to Pay to Reduce the Impacts of Transmission Infrastructure on Visual Amenity

In the context of potential measures to reduce the visual amenity impacts of existing transmission infrastructure, this London Economics study for Ofgem provides a critical review of willingness to pay evidence provided to Ofgem by the transmission operators. The first step of the review involved determining a current best practice model for WTP studies assessing […]

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Experimental Study on Non-geographic Calls

Ofcom has published the report by London Economics Experimental work on potential interventions in relation to non-geographic calls. The study uses economic experiments to investigate call price transparency for non-geographic phone numbers such as Directory Enquiries and customer support lines, and tests alternative regulatory interventions to improve price transparency to help consumers make more informed […]

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Dynamic Modelling of Transmission Systems: Costs of Seasonal-zonal Transmission Loss Factor Charging and the Impact of Large-scale Offshore Wind

2nd forum on Economics of Marine Renewable Energy, HMRC UCC, June 2011.

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Digital Radio Switchover: Willingness to Pay and Consumer Behaviour Research

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport has published the report Digital Radio Switchover: Willingness to Pay and Consumer Behaviour Research by London Economics in association with YouGov. The study assesses consumers’ willingness to pay for the various attributes of digital radio through a choice experiment, and examines consumers’ attitudes towards radio and the costs […]

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The Contribution of Insurance Brokers to the UK Economy

The market for insurance products, like many other markets, is characterised by imperfect information by each party to the transaction, significant search costs to find the “best” deal, and asymmetric bargaining power. The report shows that insurance brokers play a key role in the marketplace by identifying the risks faced by clients, reducing insurance distribution […]

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Consumer Contracts

The OFT has published the market study on problems consumers have with contracts. To inform the market study London Economics in association with YouGov completed a behavioural survey of consumers combined with an economic experiment to investigate the features of contracts that cause most problems for consumers.

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Behavioural Economics and the Impact of Price Frames on Consumer Decision Making

European Commission conference on Behavioural Economics, November 22, 2010.

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Evaluation of the Impact of the HM Prison Service Enhanced Thinking Skills Programme on Reoffending: Outcomes of the Surveying Prisoner Crime Reduction (SPCR) Sample

Sadlier, G. Ministry of Justice Research Series 19/10, November 2010

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Small Business Cost of Capital

This report estimates the cost of capital for small independent gas transport (IGT)companies. The report was submitted to Ofgem as part of their consultation on the cost of capital for the legacy IGT sector in the UK as part of their normal 5-year review. London Economics has estimated the weighted-average cost of capital (WACC) for […]

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Evaluation of UK Trade & Investment’s Global Entrepreneur Programme

London Economics was commissioned by UKT Trade & Investment to evaluate its Global Entrepreneur Programme (GEP). The GEP is underpinned by the view that entrepreneurs look beyond national borders for the most attractive sources of capital, talent, guidance and access to markets. The key objectives of the programme include attracting entrepreneur led, early stage high […]

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The Impact of Price Frames on Consumer Decision Making

London Economics was comissioned by the Office of Fair Trading to undertake a behavioural economics study into how different price frames may impact upon consumer behaviour. The study uses experimental economics to test if consumers incur behavioural biases under five common pricing practices used by firms, including drip pricing and “3 for 2” offers. The […]

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Evaluation of OFT Competition Advocacy

London Economics was commissioned to conduct an evaluation of the impact of the OFT competition advocacy interventions. A survey of government officials illustrates that competition advocacy is valued by those receiving the advice, often resulting in changes to delivery and, in cases, to the very objectives of the policy. The report also explores, with the […]

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UK Space Exploration Review Economic Analysis

EC-ESA Workshop on Exploration and Innovation, Industrial Competitiveness and Technological Advance, Oxfordshire, UK, April 29-30, 2010

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Model of Estate Costs (MEC)

London Economics were commissioned by AUDE (University Association of Directors of Estate) to update and restructure the previous model of the non-residential estate costs. The new model, the Model of Estate Costs (MEC) allows the estimation of annualised financial costs for different types of freehold, leasehold and licence non-residential estate (teaching, research, etc) and of […]

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Using Experiments in Consumer Research

Ofcom has published the report “Using experiments in consumer research” by London Economics. The work informs Ofcom about how behavioural and experimental economics can assist regulators in understanding consumer behaviour. The research implemented a controlled economic experiment which considered a number of options for improving the understanding of consumers when choosing telecommunication services funded through […]

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An Independent Review of the Evidence Base for UKTI’s Support for Firms in High Growth Markets

A study undertaken to review the rationale for supporting UK firms into high growth markets, incorporating an impact evaluation of UKTI’s pilot High Growth Market Programme.

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Review of the Customer Experience in the Employment and Skills System

As part of its work on reviewing the employment and skills system from the perspective of the individual user, the UKCES has commissioned a literature review of the customer experience. The aim of this research is to review and analyse the available academic and publicly available research evidence and literature that details individuals’ experience of […]

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Space Exploration Review

In 2009 London Economics completed an economic analysis for the British National Space Centre (BNSC) of future business opportunities arising from future space exploration investment in the UK. The analysis used a cost-benefit approach and assessed the benefits to the UK in 6 areas: Tele-robotic and autonomous drilling providing access to inhospitable environments on earth […]

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An Assessment of the UK Discretionary Penalties Regime

In this published report by the OFT, London Economics studies the efficacy of the UK discretionary penalty regime. The study benchmarks the OFT regime against other main jurisdictions and frames it within the theoretical debate on the determinants of an ‘optimal’ penalties regime. The report informs this question by analysing the academic literature and providing […]

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Evaluation of a Sample of OFT’s Consumer Enforcement Cases

This study for the Office of Fair Trading reviews the effectiveness of six past consumer protection interventions by the OFT. The project carried out six case studies and in each case it identified the sources of consumer detriment and evaluated the reduction in consumer detriment attributable to the interventions of the OFT. The six cases […]

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Road Testing of Consumer Remedies

Office of Fair Trading, London, July 9, 2009.

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London Living Wage Benefits Study

A growing number of organisations have committed to providing the pay and conditions of the London Living Wage to all staff, including contracted support staff. London Economics were appointed by the Greater London Authority (GLA) Economics to undertake an independent study of the social and economic benefits to organisations (both buyer and contractor) and employees […]

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Innovation in the Water Industry in England and Wales

As part of the independent Cave Review of competition and innovation in water markets, London Economics undertook a benchmarking exercise of innovation across all water and sewerage companies in England and Wales. The work also provides international comparisons of innovation,, and assesses the barriers to innovation and how these may be addressed.  

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Economic Benefit of the Consultative Committee for Professional Management Organisations (CCPMO)

The analysis involved an assessment of the current activities of the CCPMO member organisations, as well as estimating the economic benefit associated with obtaining professional qualifications and membership of professional organisations. The analysis illustrated that the lifetime premium associated with gaining professional qualifications and membership was in the region of £152,000 in today’s money terms. […]

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An Evaluation of the Tradeshow Access Programme

The key objectives of the evaluation were to 1) clarify the economic rationale for government support for trade fairs, and use this to determine the appropriate intervention model for TAP;  2) assess how and whether TAP meets its programme targets, for different groups (i.e. sponsors and participants) and in different markets; 3) separately determine the […]

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Impact Evaluation of the Tradeshow Access Programme (TAP)

London Economics was commissioned in August 2007 to undertake an impact evaluation of the Tradeshow Access Programme (TAP). The evaluation research involved a firm survey, a stakeholder consultation and a detailed quantitative and econometric analysis of programme impact and additionality. These research strands were then used to formulate a benefit-cost analysis, identify an economic rationale […]

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2008 SMG Model

The Model, with updated parameters, allows HEIs to compute their own estimates of the sustainable and total estate provisions using either a range of default input values or their own institution-specific information and assumptions. The Model is accompanied by a User Guide. The cost model allows users to calculate both the cost of maintaining the […]

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Impact Assessment for Proposed Changes to UK Copyright Law

London Economics was commissioned by the UK Intellectual Property Office (UK-IPO) to provide an impact assessment of four different options for the revision of the current conditions for exemption from payment of music licensing fees for the public performance of musical work. The impact assessment sought to understand, and where possible quantify, the likely costs […]

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Infrastructure Choices for a Sustainable Economy

12TH Annual Northern Ireland Economic Conference 2007 “Facing the Challenges of the Northern Ireland Economy”, Belfast, October 3, 2007.

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The Economic Benefits of a Degree

London Economics were commissioned by Universities UK in association with PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP to undertake a review of the economic evidence relating to the benefits of higher education qualification attainment. The report illustrated the significant benefits from undertaking a degree; the variation of economic outcomes depending on a number of factors; as well as the likely […]

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International Case Studies of the Commercial Use of Public Information

This report, undertaken for the OFT as part of its market study into the commercial use of public information, provides background information on the general public sector information policy of Australia, Sweden and the United States and examines in detail the policies and practices of three different Public Sector Information Holders (PSIH) in each country, […]

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Evaluation of Cumulative Impact of Safety, Health and Environmental Regulations on Various Chemicals Sectors: Issues, Challenges and Lessons Learned

DTI/BRE conference on the Evaluation of Regulation “Adding up the costs and benefits”, London , November 24, 2006.

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Research into Payment Protection Insurance in the UK

The report reviews the relevant payment protection insurance market and analyses those characteristics of the market that may be limiting competition and giving rise to consumer detriment. The report also identifies a series of additional data that would be desirable to obtain to further the analysis of the sector.

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Evaluating the Cumulative Impact of Safety, Health and Environmental Regulation on the UK Industrial Coatings, Aerosols and Speciality Chemicals Sectors

This report provides estimates of the cost of compliance with current safety, health and environmental regulations in excess of the minimum costs necessary to ensure current levels of protection, describes the perceived benefits of these regulations and sets out a number of proposals for reducing the cost of compliance with the current regulations while maintaining […]

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Incorporating Quality of Service Measures Into Price-caps for Post

This paper develops an approach of how to incorporate quality of service improvements into price caps using economic concepts related to productivity growth measurement and hedonic pricing. The paper advances practical work done by Postcomm (use of the C factor) and is related to empirical work done previously to estimate both consumers’ willingness to pay […]

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Study to Inform the Policy Review of the Aggregates Levy Sustainability Fund

This study undertaken assesses the costs and benefits of completed and current projects funded by the Aggregates Levy Sustainability Fund Programme during the period 2004 to 2007. It also aims to investigate whether continued funding after 2007 would provide value for money and, if so, what activities should be funded.

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The Cost Of Space

This report provides a methodology to calculate and benchmark the total cost of any higher education institution’s (HEI’s) non-residential estate in the UK.  

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Drivers of the Size of the HE Estate

he report develops an estate size benchmarking tool that is based on a statistically estimated relationship between the size of the non-residential estate and a number of drivers such as income, location, characteristics of the estate and composition of the student body.

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The Impact of Size-based Pricing on Mail Users

This report presents the results of London Economics’ study for Postwatch concerning the impact of the change to size based pricing (SBP) proposed by Royal Mail in August 2003. The proposal represents a major change to Royal Mail’s pricing structure and would affect most postal users to varying degrees. The proposed price changes vary greatly […]

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Wealth Creation from Science, Engineering and Technology

The Engineering and Technology Board commissioned London Economics to undertake a study of the contribution of Science, Engineering and Technology (SET) to the wealth and quality of life in the United Kingdom. We use two approaches in estimating the contribution of SET in the economy: the contribution of those sectors of the economy that employed […]

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London and Foreign Direct Inward Investment

London Economics was commissioned by Greater London Authority (GLA) Economics to undertake a study on how London as a world city contributes to attract foreign direct inward investment (FDI) into the United Kingdom, and the risks to London’s attractiveness for FDI in the future. The report reviews recent trends in direct foreign inward investment into […]

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PR04 Scope for Efficiency Studies

This report for OFWAT provides an assessment of the scope for future operating and capital efficiency in the water and sewerage industries by using both a “top-down” and “bottom-up” approach. The top-down approach assesses the scope for future efficiency improvements by analysing past productivity trends in the water and sewerage industries and by undertaking a […]

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ICT and GDP Growth in the United Kingdom: A Sectoral Analysis

This report for Cisco Systems quantifies the contribution of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) to output and labour productivity growth for twelve sectors of the UK. By using growth accounting methods, this study shows that the contribution of ICT to economic performance is substantial for most of the UK sectors.

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ICT Investment and Productivity in the UK: a Regional Assessment

This Brief summarises our research for Cisco Systems which quantifies the contribution of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) to output and labour productivity growth for twelve sectors of the UK. By using growth accounting methods, this study shows that the contribution of ICT to economic performance is substantial for most of the UK sectors.

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Assessment of the Benefits of Universal Postal Service to Consignia

The report for Postwatch evaluates and quantifies the benefits of Consignia’s (Royal Mail) Universal Service Obligation (USO). The study reports the results of the application of a general economic model using pricing and production decisions by a multi-product monopolist to the postal sector. The methodology employed uses demand and supply side models and techniques to […]

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An Experimental Test of Design Alternatives for the British 3G / UMTS Auction

In spring 2000, the British government auctioned off licences for Third Generation mobile telecommunications services. In the preparation of the auction, two designs involving each a hybrid of an English and a sealed-bid auction were suggested by the government: a discriminatory and a uniform price variant. We report an experiment on these two designs, and […]

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Polarisation and Financial Services Intermediary Regulation

The report to the FSA studies the economic effects of a range of possible options for changes to the polarisation regime.

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De Waterindustrie in Engeland En Wales (The Water Industry in England and Wales)

Economisch Statistische Berichten Dossier:  Liberalisering van Netwerksectoren, Nederlands Economische Instituut, 22 June 2000, Volume 85, No. 4261, 2000. Jones, S.

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Size and Health of the UK Space Industry 2018

The UK Space Agency commissioned LE for the third time to update the government’s reference analysis on the UK space industry, including various breakdowns of turnover by satellite type, value chain segment and region. The 2018 edition of the study also included overviews on Gross Value Added (GVA) and employment throughout the UK space industry […]

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