Podcast: What is the Barnett formula? - The method by which Scottish Government Gets Its Share of UK Cash

10th March 2025

The Fraser of Allender has very good explanatory podast about the Barnet Formula that Scottish Government relies on for money from the UK Government.

If you've ever heard us talking about Barnett consequentials and wanted to know more - this is the episode for you!.

Listn to the podcast HERE

FAI Deputy Direction João Sousa joins economist Hannah Randolph to talk about the way that UK spending decisions are translated through the Barnett formula into revenues for devolved governments. We discuss the history of the Barnett formula, how it is applied and governed in practice, and what it means for devolved governments' fiscal policymaking.

Episode notes
Participants
Dr Hannah Randolph, Economics Fellow, Fraser of Allander Institute, University of Strathclyde

Dr João Sousa, Deputy Director, Fraser of Allander Institute, University of Strathclyde

Time stamps
(0:25) What is the Barnett formula and what does it do?

(2:50) What came before the Barnett formula and how was it different?

(9:25) Has the Barnett formula resulted in convergence on spending per person across the UK nations?

(12:40) Limits set by the Barnett formula and their impact on spending options for devolved governments

(16:50) Governance framework - can devolved governments challenge decisions made on the Barnett formula?

(22:25) Potential options for changing the Barnett formula and framework

Listn to the podcast HERE

Barnet Forumula At Wikipdia