Ninny State?

Like many other European countries, the UK is experiencing linked 'energy' and 'cost of living' crises. Other countries are giving their citizens advice on how they can minimise energy use (and save money). The UK planned a similar campaign, involving the National Grid and energy suppliers. This has now been vetoed by the PM (https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2022/oct/07/climate-minister-britons-not-be-told-use-less-energy-winter-nanny-state). The reason for the veto is said to be a desire not to be labelled a 'nanny state'. A nanny is a female, usually employed by a well-heeled family, to look after their child care. The nanny tells the children what they should do. Weirdly, the current UK Business Secretary still retains his childhood nanny. Not giving citizens advice, that could save lives and money, just seems perverse. The UK is consequently in danger of becoming a 'ninny state'. A 'ninny' being a 'foolish and weak person'. Fortunately, newspapers and websites are full of advice about how to deal with the energy/financial trials coming our way this winter (https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2022/oct/07/expert-winter-tips-winterproof-finances-bills). Unfortunately, a substantial number of folk neither read newspapers nor are computer literate. They are precisely the people who would most benefit by receiving a pamphlet through their door.