Money Minute Friday 20 December: public sector borrowing in the UK
Today's Money Minute – the last of the year – looks ahead to the latest data on public sector net borrowing, which gives us a snapshot of government spending.
In the UK this morning, we get the latest data on public sector net borrowing.This gives a snapshot of government spending.
In the first seven months of this financial year, borrowing was 10% higher than last year.That's because while tax receipts were higher this year, government spending was higher still.
Given that the government wants to turn on the spending taps next year, the press might pay more attention to this release than usual.But ultimately, from a market impact perspective, it's not particularly consequential in these days of low interest rates.
MoneyWeek
Subscribe to MoneyWeek today and get your first six magazine issues absolutely FREE

Sign up to Money Morning
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
Markets may one day start to care about high levels of government borrowing a lot more than they do now.If inflation picks up, it will become an issue.But there's little sign of the so-called "bond vigilantes" returning to haunt markets quite yet.
That's all from us here at Money Minute for this year. We'll return on Monday 6 January. In the meantime, have a wonderful Christmas and a very happy New Year.
Get the latest financial news, insights and expert analysis from our award-winning MoneyWeek team, to help you understand what really matters when it comes to your finances.
MoneyWeek is written by a team of experienced and award-winning journalists, plus expert columnists. As well as daily digital news and features, MoneyWeek also publishes a weekly magazine, covering investing and personal finance. From share tips, pensions, gold to practical investment tips - we provide a round-up to help you make money and keep it.
-
Will UK inflation rise ahead of BoE meeting?
August’s inflation report will be published at 7am this morning, one day before the Bank of England’s next rate-setting meeting
-
Thousands of savers with £250k pensions take cash over tax-free money and IHT fears
With a record £70 billion withdrawn from pensions in the year to March, experts are concerned savers are making knee-jerk decisions without advice that could affect their long term wealth