Joel Barnett, Baron Barnett (1923–2014) was a British politician and economist known for his impact on public finance and economic policy. As Chief Secretary to the Treasury (1974–79,) he devised the Barnett Formula, allocating public spending across Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Born in Manchester, England, Barnett trained as an accountant before entering politics. Elected Member of Parliament for Heywood and Royton (1964–83,) he served in Harold Wilson’s and James Callaghan’s governments. His tenure as Chief Secretary to the Treasury faced economic challenges, including inflation and spending constraints.
Barnett later chaired the Public Accounts Committee (1979–83,) overseeing government financial accountability. Granted a life peerage in 1983, he continued his work in the House of Lords.
His publication Inside the Treasury (1982) offers an insider’s perspective on economic policy and government finance.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Joel Barnett
Bias and impartiality is in the eye of the beholder.
—Joel Barnett
Topics: Perspective
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