Treasury Figures Show North Receives More Government Services Funding Than South

New figures from the Treasury indicate that individuals in northern England typically receive approximately £2,000 more per year in government services than those residing in the South. This analysis challenges the assertion, often voiced by northern leaders, that the region has historically been shortchanged in favor of wealthier southern areas.

The Treasury data, released this month, reveals that the average value of public services per head across England is £13,134 annually. However, this national average conceals significant regional disparities. Residents of the South East, for example, receive an average of £12,031 per year in services, while those in the South West receive £12,432.

In contrast, public service spending in the North West averages £13,835 per head, and in the North East, it is even higher at £14,102. These figures encompass a broad spectrum of government expenditures, including health, education, public order, transport, housing, and economic development.

The data has drawn criticism from some Members of Parliament. Greg Smith, MP for Mid Buckinghamshire, stated that the figures contradict the narrative of the North being disadvantaged. He described the current funding system as 'entirely unfair' to southern areas, suggesting that the Prime Minister's agenda could exacerbate this imbalance.

'It is so divisive, but it is also inaccurate,' Smith said. 'My constituents are over-taxed because it is to fund national taxes, which are predominantly not being spent on the things they want to see locally. Instead they are disproportionately given out to other parts of the country.' He cited the example of road maintenance in his constituency, arguing that despite the deteriorating condition of local roads, insufficient resources are allocated.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has previously committed to devolving more power and resources to the North, based on the argument that the region has traditionally lost out to more affluent parts of England. This latest Treasury analysis presents a different perspective on regional funding allocations.