Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

UK Public Sector Borrowing Soars to £17.7 Billion

6/20/2025

50 5

Summary

Story summary

In May 2025, the UK faced a staggering public sector borrowing of £17.7 billion, marking the second-highest figure for the month ever recorded. This surge, fueled by rising spending and inflation, contributed to a current budget deficit of £12.8 billion. Meanwhile, a tax gap of 5.3% for 2023-2024 underscores the pressing issue of unpaid taxes, threatening vital public services.

1 of 1

Story summary

In May 2025, the UK faced a staggering public sector borrowing of £17.7 billion, marking the second-highest figure for the month ever recorded. This surge, fueled by rising spending and inflation, contributed to a current budget deficit of £12.8 billion. Meanwhile, a tax gap of 5.3% for 2023-2024 underscores the pressing issue of unpaid taxes, threatening vital public services.