BARNETT UNFAIR

The Barnett Formula was designed in the 1970s to bribe Scotland and Wales into voting against devolution, by giving them English money. Thirty years later, it has become a standing joke that Scotland provides MPs to rule England whilst England pays for Scotland. Here is government spending for 2003/4 per head between the two countries. Spot the difference.....

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Area	England	Scotland	Advantage
Environment	£100	£274	Scotland 174%
General services	£30	£75	Scotland 150%
Farm/Fish/Forestry	£78	£144	Scotland 85%
Rec./Culture/Religion	£108	£188	Scotland 74%
Housing	£114	£169	Scotland 48%
Transport	£297	£386	Scotland 30%
Science & Technology	£28	£36	Scotland 29%
Social problems	£2600	£3039	Scotland 17%
Employment	£44	£51	Scotland 16%
Health	£1350	£1563	Scotland 16%
Education & Training	£1086	£1179	Scotland 9%
Enterprise/Social devel.	£98	£102	Scotland 4%
Public order/safety	£394	£389	England 1%

Amazing, isn't it? That we actually get more money in one area. So next time Scotland asks for independence, fine - just take your politicians back with you, and prepare to face one enormous bill!

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