United Kingdom Government Debt to GDP — 2026 Data & Trend
The United Kingdom's government debt was 130.74% in December 2024, down from 136.14% the previous year. A year earlier it stood at 136.14%.
The United Kingdom's government debt stands at 130.74% as of December 2024. Over the latest readings, the government debt has moved within a band of 29.19% to 194.68%. The most recent figure of 130.74% is down from 136.14% a year earlier, and is 5.41% lower than a year ago.
The trend
Among the 121 economies tracked on this platform, United Kingdom ranks #7 on government debt by latest value. It fell from 136.14% in the previous year, and compares with a year-earlier 136.14%.
What's driving it
The debt ratio moves with budget deficits, growth, interest costs and the currency; faster nominal growth lowers it, while wide deficits push it up.
Recent readings
| Period | Government debt |
|---|---|
| Dec 2024 | 130.74% |
| Dec 2023 | 136.14% |
| Dec 2022 | 138.22% |
| Dec 2021 | 183.80% |
| Dec 2020 | 194.68% |
| Dec 2019 | 158.97% |
| Dec 2018 | 156.77% |
| Dec 2017 | 160.14% |
Data: The World Bank — World Development Indicators (CC BY 4.0) Figures carry an effective date; confirm with the source before relying on them.
Frequently asked questions
How Much Government Debt Does the United Kingdom Have in 2026?
The United Kingdom's government debt was 130.74% in December 2024, down from 136.14% the previous year. A year earlier it stood at 136.14%.
Is the government debt rising or falling in the United Kingdom?
It fell in the latest reading — 130.74% in December 2024 versus 136.14% a year earlier. Year on year it is lower.
What is government debt?
It measures total public debt expressed as a share of gross domestic product (debt-to-GDP).