Bradford Faces Massive Cuts

The UK government’s public spending figures for 2012/2013 reveal that England receives below-average funding per capita compared to other UK nations, putting Bradford and the wider Yorkshire and the Humber region under severe financial pressure. This disparity stems from the Barnett Formula and the decision to preserve it for Scotland.

UK Public Spending per Head (2012/2013)

• UK average: £8,788
• England: £8,529 (3% below UK average)
• Scotland: £10,152 (16% above UK average)
• Wales: £9,709 (10% above UK average)
• Northern Ireland: £10,876 (24% above UK average)
• Yorkshire and the Humber: £8,610 (UK average £8,788)

Funding Disparities in Bradford

Based on the 2011 Census, Bradford’s population stood at 522,452. Projected spending for Bradford varies dramatically depending on which per-head figure is applied:

• UK average basis: £4,591,308,176
• Yorkshire and the Humber basis: £4,498,311,720 (£92,999,456 less)
• Scotland basis: £5,303,932,704 (£805,620,984 more)

Regional Impact: Yorkshire and the Humber

With a population of 5,284,000, total annual funding would be:

• UK average basis: £46,435,792,000
• Regional basis: £45,495,240,000 (£940,552,000 less)
• Scotland basis: £53,643,168,000 (£8,147,928,000 more)

How the Barnett Formula Worsens Austerity

By maintaining the Barnett Formula for Scotland, England’s regions – especially Bradford and Yorkshire and the Humber – lose out on billions each year. If regional funding matched Scotland’s per-head figure, Yorkshire and the Humber would gain nearly £8 billion annually, easing public service strains.

Despite vows by the three main UK party leaders to protect the Barnett Formula, this promises unequal treatment. Rather than safeguarding Scotland’s advantage, spending in England should be distributed according to need, not formulaic population-based blocks.

Why an English Government Is Urgently Needed

Eddie Bone, Campaign Director for the Workers of England Union, stated: “An English Government with an English First Minister could work towards redressing this imbalance, ensuring that the people of England receive a fair share of the money they contribute as taxpayers.” A dedicated English manifesto could argue for funding based on genuine regional need, not outdated formulae.

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