Scottish public spending higher than UK average

David Mundell
David Mundell



New figures released today by the Treasury show spending per head in Scotland is £1,460 higher than the UK average.

The data - which presents an analysis of public expenditure by country - shows Scotland’s average spend per head is £10,536 compared to the UK average of £9,076.

Secretary of State for Scotland David Mundell said: “Public spending in Scotland is higher than the rest of the UK – now by almost £1,500 per person per year - despite a rising budget deficit on the Scottish Government’s watch. This illustrates the value to Scotland of being part of a strong, broad-shouldered United Kingdom.”

Country

2015-16

Spending per head

Northern Ireland

£10,983

Wales

£9,996

Scotland

£10,536

England

£8,816

UK

£9,076

Out of nearly £591 billion of UK spending in 2015-16, England accounts for £483 billion, Scotland £57 billion, Wales £31 billion and Northern Ireland £20 billion.

The amount of spending which countries enjoy is determined by the Barnett Formula adopts a needs-based approach and sees Scotland enjoy a better deal than other parts of the UK.

The UK Government data can be accessed via the Country and Regional Analysis – November 2016 publication.

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