Definition of the mixed economic system. Government intervention to address market failure. Definitions, drawing and interpretation of appropriate diagrams showing the effects of three government microeconomic policy measures: maximum and minimum prices in product, labour and foreign exchange markets; indirect taxation; and subsidies. The implications of other government microeconomic policy measures: regulation; privatisation and nationalisation; and direct provision of goods. The effectiveness of government intervention in overcoming the drawbacks of a market economic system.

Definition of the government budget. The main areas of government spending and the reasons for and effects of spending in these areas. Taxation as the main source of government revenue and the reasons for levying taxation. Examples of the different classifications of tax; progressive, regressive, proportional; and direct, indirect. The qualities of a good tax. The impact of taxation on consumers, producers, government and economy as a whole. Definition of fiscal policy. The tax and spending changes, in the form of fiscal policy, that cause budget balance or imbalance. Including calculations of the size of a budget deficit or surplus. How fiscal policy measures may enable the government to achieve its macroeconomic aims. Note: aggregate demand and aggregate supply are not required.