Spending Review - Project Open Gov

A government process setting departmental spending plans over a future period.

Category: Business and economy Finance and spending

Also used as: spending reviews, public spending review

Source / explainer: Read GOV.UK explainer on Spending Reviews

Last reviewed: 3 August 2026

A Spending Review is a process in which the government sets departmental spending plans for a future period. It determines how much money departments will receive for services, investment and administration. Spending Reviews are important for understanding public service priorities, fiscal policy and the resources available to government departments.

Related terms

BudgetA major statement setting out the government’s tax, spending and economic plans.Departmental Expenditure LimitA Treasury spending control covering planned departmental spending.HM TreasuryThe UK Government department responsible for public finances, tax policy, spending and economic policy.Public ExpenditureMoney spent by government and public bodies.