Debts and Deficits: How much is Labour to blame?

Article

On the basis of this report, Labour's 'fiscal profligacy' just ahead of the recession would seem to have been on a very limited scale, and charges that the Coalition is tackling 'Labour's debt' and 'Labour's deficits', or that Labour let spending run out of control before the recession, do not stack up.

The Coalition government has sought to blame its Labour predecessor for Britain's current fiscal position. There have also been accusations that the deficit was, at least in part, due to excessive spending by the last Labour government even before the recession of 2008 and 2009.

This note looks at the numbers on debt, deficits and spending (relative to GDP) - over time in the UK and comparing the UK with other developed economies.

Related items

  1. What makes a good Holyrood 2026 manifesto?

    IPPR Scotland sets out five key tests

  2. Turning energy support into investment leverage

    The UK’s energy support risks missing growth by backing high-cost industries instead of those most likely to invest.
  3. Aerial view of the Borders General Hospital on the edge of the Scottish Borders town of Melrose

    More for less? Employment, productivity and reform in Scottish public services

    Excellent public services should be foundational to a flourishing society.