This year’s report finds the UK government amid the complex challenge of leaving the EU. Inevitably, this early phase of EU exit is taking place under intense media scrutiny and passionate political debate. But while EU exit issues may dominate headlines, the public services face more local challenges as they address rising demand, budget restraint and renewed levels of concern about social inequality.
Overview
The State of the State report provides a unique, independent analysis of the UK public sector. Produced in collaboration with think tank, Reform, the insight is informed by interviews with public sector leaders, citizen research, a business survey and analysis of government data.
This year’s report is constructed around three distinctive perspectives – the citizen lens, the public sector lens and the business lens – and we hope they provide a fresh look at The State of the State.
The state of the public finances
- Deficit elimination goes on
This year, the UK’s deficit is expected to come down to £58.3 billion. - The summit of the debt mountain
Official forecasts suggest that government debt could peak in this financial year at £1.8 trillion representing 88 per cent of GDP. - The end of austerity?
While public attitudes towards austerity have hardened, the UK’s deficit still stands at £58 billion and government debt has reached £1.8 trillion. The government remains committed to eliminating the deficit and paying down debt, and so a blend of continued austerity and tax adjustments may be required.
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