Geographical inequalities and sub-national funding in France

Abstract

The aim of this review is to draw out lessons for England, and the UK more broadly, in terms of how funding mechanisms can be used to better address spatial inequalities. The review is based on desk research of academic and policy publications, as well as 11 interviews conducted with French academics and policy experts in summer-winter 2024.

The review highlights several key issues relevant to the UK and English context, including how fiscal equalisation mechanisms and local fiscal autonomy and flexibility can support national government in addressing geographical inequalities. The report also provides insights into how the state can help local authorities with less capacity / expertise by providing support with developing funding bids. Accessing support from civil servants based regionally who have a strong understanding of regional needs can help facilitate relationship building and enable the development of stronger, more regionally responsive bids.

This report is for the Improving Public Funding Allocations to Reduce Geographical Inequalities project funded by the ESRC.

The project brings together a highly experienced interdisciplinary team from the Universities of Birmingham, Bristol, De Montfort, Newcastle, Nottingham, Plymouth and Sheffield, together with the National Centre for Social Research and Metro Dynamics.