The UK Government has already trailed plans to increase defence spending, boost spending in the NHS, and reform social security. But it has said much less, so far, about day-to-day spending on public services. With limited headroom for new funding, any shift in priorities is likely to mean savings elsewhere.

Trade discussions jeopardised by simple zero-sum maths

Spending decisions on reserved areas such as the industrial strategy, research and development, and defence procurement will all have an impact here in Scotland.

But the Scottish Government’s budget will also be impacted too. Even with recent tax devolution, the Barnett Formula remains the most significant contributor to the Scottish Government’s budget. The formula ensures that any increase or decrease in Whitehall spending in

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