Timing lags refer to delays between the implementation of fiscal policy measures (such as tax cuts or increased government spending) and their impact on the economy. In this case, the politician's government was unable to implement the promised fiscal policies due to the high debt level, which delayed or negated the planned economic measures.

This reflects the challenge of timing lags in fiscal policy, where structural constraints (such as debt levels) prevent timely execution.

Volume 1, Chapter 5: Economic Policy under 'Challenges of Government Policy' discusses timing lags in implementing fiscal measures (CSC Volume 1, Chapter 5).