Britain's Growing Borrowing: Unexpected Surge in July

Britain's government borrowed more than anticipated in July, indicated by official data. The public sector net borrowing reached £3.101 billion, the highest since 2021. This rise, driven by increased social benefits and higher government wages, sets a tight financial backdrop for new finance minister Rachel Reeves.

Britain's government borrowed more than expected last month, according to official data released on Wednesday. The figures underscore the tight financial conditions facing new finance minister Rachel Reeves as she prepares her first annual budget.

Data from the Office for National Statistics revealed that British public sector net borrowing was 3.101 billion pounds ($4.04 billion) in July. This marks the highest July figure since 2021, a period marked by a surge in deficits due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Reuters-polled economists had a median forecast of 1.5 billion pounds for public sector net borrowing, excluding state-controlled banks.

The increase in net borrowing was attributed to rising social benefits, adjusted for inflation, and higher government wages compared to the previous year, as highlighted by the ONS. ($1 = 0.7680 pounds)

(With inputs from agencies.)