Government borrowing drops in May but debt levels remain a 'black hole'

Still second-highest monthly borrowing on record

Anna Fedorova
clock • 1 min read

UK government borrowing was significantly lower in May than during the same month last year as the economy recovers from the coronavirus crisis, but remains elevated on a historical basis.

According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), borrowing - the difference between spending and tax income - was £24.3bn during May, £19.4bn lower than the same month in 2020. However, this figure was still the second highest since records began, as the government continues to pour fiscal support into the economic system. Paul Craig, portfolio manager at Quilter Investors, said: "The level of borrowing may indeed have fallen on last month, but we are still well away from ‘normal' levels and May's additional £24.3bn of public sector net borrowing makes the black hole that little...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Investment

Chaos is not a ladder: Navigating human behaviour at times of market stress

Chaos is not a ladder: Navigating human behaviour at times of market stress

'It is important to maintain perspective'

Sacha Chorley
clock 09 March 2026 • 4 min read
Four reasons why direct engagement can still make a difference

Four reasons why direct engagement can still make a difference

'Quantitative data arguably tells only half the story'

Simon Wood
clock 05 March 2026 • 4 min read
Darius McDermott: Is income under pressure?

Darius McDermott: Is income under pressure?

‘The period of abundant income is ebbing'

Darius McDermott
clock 04 March 2026 • 5 min read