IT was almost one ago to the day when Vince Cable lost his seat, becoming one of the highest profile casualties of the 2015 election.

The former Business Secretary in the coalition shot to prominence for his views on the banking crisis of 2008 and on Tuesday he was in Swindon to talk about where the world economy now was.

Speaking about his new book on day two of the Swindon Festival of Literature, he explained some of the consequences of the crash and the potential threats still posed.

The Arts Centre auditorium was packed to hear the Liberal Democrat speak before 20 minutes was spent taking questions from the audience.

For many, the ins and outs of global finance might not be the most exciting topic but Mr Cable’s experience as a politician means he speaks in an engaging way.

He did not spend time apportioning blame for the crash as some might expect but did say more needs to be done.

There was clear frustration at the state of the UK housing market while risks from economic issues in China and Euro-zone were also touched upon, with Mr Cable hinting uncertainty caused by the coming EU referendum might add to the problem.

Towards the end of his talk, the issue of living standards in the UK was mentioned.

“Some of us believe there is something developing and that is as a country we are just not very productive,” he said.

“As a result living standards are stagnating or going down. The big question is how you turn that around. This is the issue we all should be thinking about.”

When Mr Cable finished speaking, hands from audience members shot up to ask questions on a range of topics, including how to involve young people in politics to problems with the rental market.

There was much engagement from the audience, who listened intently to what the former minister had to say and as the session ended everyone filed out having had a thought-provoking evening.

What's on at the festival today

AN Wilson - The Book Of The People
The book in question is The Bible, which is the subject of the cultural historian’s talk. Arts Centre, Devizes Road, 12.30pm. Tickets £7. 

Poetry Swindon 78s
Hilda Sheehan and Mike Pringle with readings accompanied by old 78rpm records. Central Library, Regent Circus, 7.30pm. Free.

Hilary Bradt
The author discusses travel for the older generations. Arts Centre, Devizes Road, 6.30pm. Tickets £7.

Roger Scruton
More philosophical musings from this prolific author and festival regular. Arts Centre, Devizes Road, 8pm. £8.