Joel Barnett, Baron Barnett facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
The Lord Barnett
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|---|---|
| Chief Secretary to the Treasury | |
| In office 5 March 1974 – 4 May 1979 |
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| Prime Minister | Harold Wilson James Callaghan |
| Preceded by | Tom Boardman |
| Succeeded by | John Biffen |
| Member of Parliament for Heywood and Royton |
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| In office 15 October 1964 – 9 June 1983 |
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| Preceded by | Tony Leavey |
| Succeeded by | Constituency Abolished |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 14 October 1923 |
| Died | 1 November 2014 (aged 91) Manchester, England |
| Political party | Labour |
Joel Barnett, Baron Barnett, PC (born 14 October 1923 – died 1 November 2014), was a politician from the Labour Party in the United Kingdom. He held an important job in the government as the Chief Secretary to the Treasury in the late 1970s. During this time, he created a well-known rule called the Barnett Formula. This formula helped decide how much public money would be spent in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
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Who Was Joel Barnett?
Joel Barnett was born on 14 October 1923. He became a key figure in British politics. He was known for his careful approach to public money. His work helped shape how the government spent money across the UK.
A Key Role in Government
From 1974 to 1979, Joel Barnett served as the Chief Secretary to the Treasury. This is a very important job in the UK government. The person in this role helps manage the country's money. They work closely with the Chancellor of the Exchequer. Their main task is to control how much government departments spend. They also make sure public money is used wisely.
The Barnett Formula Explained
One of Joel Barnett's most famous achievements was creating the Barnett Formula. This rule was put in place to decide how much money Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland would get from the UK government. Before this, it was harder to figure out fair amounts. The formula made the process clearer. It linked the money these areas received to changes in spending in England. This helped to control public spending across the whole country. The Barnett Formula is still talked about in politics today.
Serving as a Member of Parliament
Before his big role in the Treasury, Joel Barnett was a Member of Parliament (MP). He represented the area of Heywood and Royton. He was first elected as an MP in 1964. He served his local area for many years, until 1983. As an MP, he spoke up for the people he represented. He also helped make new laws for the country. Being an MP is a vital part of the UK's democratic system.
Later Life and Legacy
After leaving Parliament, Joel Barnett continued to be involved in public life. He was made a life peer, which meant he became a member of the House of Lords. This allowed him to keep contributing to political discussions. Joel Barnett passed away in Manchester, England, on 1 November 2014. He was 91 years old. His legacy, especially the Barnett Formula, continues to be an important part of how the UK government manages its finances.
