The current economic mantra stresses the role of the private sector as the engine of economic growth. It’s easy to see why: when we think of innovation we think of Apple, Facebook, Google, and a host of other companies that have changed our lives. But behind the scenes lies the public sector: the success of these firms, and indeed the viability of our entire economy, depends heavily on a well-performing public sector. There are creative entrepreneurs all over the world. What makes a difference—whether they are able to bring their ideas to fruition and products to market—is the government.
