Stark regional and national differences in public spending and tax income in 2020/21 are outlined in new analysis from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) showing London had both the highest spend and the smallest deficit per head of population.

During that year public spending across the UK rocketed by 26% due to COVID support schemes, reaching £16,580 per head.  However, in London it was highest at £19,230 reflecting the higher population on furlough and lowest in the East Midlands at £15,000 and East of England £15,300.