The challenge is to provide an acceptable safety net without the cost destroying the state’s long-term viability. It seems unlikely that any of the main parties will be brave enough to address this issue in the 2015 election campaign, either by setting out a raft of tax increases or far-reaching reductions in benefits. But afterwards, it will be unavoidable. Until then, we will be asked to believe in the return of the growth fairy and the magic she brings to dishonest economics.