The Super-Rich and Us

The Super-Rich and Us investigates the impact of extreme wealth on British society. This two-part BBC series, hosted by Jacques Peretti, focuses on the transformation of Britain’s economic landscape due to the influx of billionaires and the resulting widening wealth gap.

The documentary begins by highlighting a startling statistic: Britain has more billionaires per capita than any other country in the world. However, it is also the most unequal nation in Europe. This paradox sets the stage for Peretti’s exploration of how the super-rich have shaped Britain’s economy and society.

A key aspect is the examination of government policies that have made Britain an attractive tax haven for the ultra-wealthy. Peretti argues that this was not an accidental development but a deliberate strategy implemented by successive governments. The underlying belief was that the wealth of the super-rich would “trickle down” to benefit the rest of society. However, it presents evidence suggesting that this approach has not yielded the expected results.

The series features interviews with various stakeholders, including some of the super-rich themselves. These conversations provide insight into the motivations and perspectives of those who have benefited from Britain’s wealth-friendly policies. Interestingly, some billionaires express criticism of the very policies that have contributed to their wealth, acknowledging the growing inequality in society.

Peretti also investigates the impact of foreign multimillionaires buying property in Britain. This trend, he argues, is transforming the nation from one of property owners to one of renters. He presents research showing that unaffordable property is a key driver of growing inequality, with far-reaching effects on various aspects of British life.

The documentary moves on to the historical context of inequality in Britain. It traces how changes in work culture and corporate practices since the 1970s have contributed to the current economic landscape. The acceptance of huge executive bonuses, for instance, is presented as a manufactured phenomenon that has exacerbated wealth disparities.

Throughout, Peretti challenges the architects of policies that have favored the super-rich. He presents data from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) suggesting that the British economy would have been 20 percent larger had it not pursued policies catering to the ultra-wealthy.

By presenting a range of perspectives and data, the series offers a comprehensive look at the complex issue of wealth inequality in Britain. It raises important questions about the role of government policy in shaping economic outcomes and the long-term consequences of extreme wealth concentration.