The UK government spent £1.375 trillion in 2026/27 — more than it collected. Here's exactly where it went and what it means for your tax bill.
The UK government collects more in tax than at any point in post-war history — and still spends more than it takes in. The gap is funded by borrowing, which adds to a national debt that now exceeds £2.87 trillion and costs £124 billion per year in interest alone. Every pound of that debt — and every pound of that interest — will ultimately be paid for through future taxation.
This category explains where the money actually goes: health, welfare, education, defence, debt interest, and the programmes that together consume £1.375 trillion each year. It is your money — you should know exactly how it's spent.
£1,375 billion split across health, welfare, education, defence, and debt interest. Here's every pound accounted for.
Read the analysis →Over 100% of GDP. Interest payments alone: £124bn/year — more than defence and transport combined.
Read the analysis →5.8% average rise in 2024/25 — first time above private sector in years. Total cost: £9–10bn extra. Here's the full picture.
Read the analysis →Social protection is the largest single item of government spending. Per working household: approximately £11,600/year.
Read the analysis →Borrowing figures, OBR forecasts, spending announcements — tracked every week in plain English.
Every spending decision has a minister behind it. Our ministers tracker holds them accountable — by department, by decision, and by impact on household bills.
View the ministers tracker →