§ My Government have maintained the economic policies necessary to strengthen the foundations of economic recovery. They have continued to make progress in reducing inflation and achieving lower interest rates and have helped business and individuals through tax changes and improved incentives designed to encourage the productive private sector and to promote the wider ownership of wealth. My Government believe that these policies offer the best hopes of achieving a lasting reduction in the present distressingly high levels of unemployment. Meanwhile, the help given under the special employment measures has been substantially increased.
§ Legislation has been passed to facilitate private investment in parts of the businesses of the British National Oil Corporation and the British Gas Corporation and to promote competition in the gas industry. An Act has been passed to reduce further the involvement of the public sector in transport.
1156§ Legislation has been passed to improve the law on industrial relations. A Youth Training Scheme has been drawn up, and other training arrangements have been improved. A comprehensive programme is being vigorously pursued to improve management and efficiency in the Civil Service.
§ Legislation has been passed to protect ratepayers from supplementary rates and to improve the accountability and efficiency of local authorities. An Act has been passed to clarify the powers of the Greater London Council to provide travel concessions for the elderly and disabled.
§ Provision has been made for the re-establishment of a representative Assembly in Northern Ireland, and elections to it have taken place. The Royal Ulster Constabulary, supported by the Army, have continued to serve the people of Northern Ireland with steadfastness, dedication, and courage.
§ An Act has been passed to give the courts stronger and more flexible sentencing powers, especially in regard to young offenders, and to make other improvements in the criminal justice system. Legislation has been passed giving local authorities in England and Wales powers to regulate various activities which might otherwise cause nuisance or give offence.
§ Acts have been passed to amend the law governing jurisdiction and the enforcement of judgments in civil and commercial matters and to improve the arrangements for legal aid in criminal cases and the general administration of justice.
§ My Government have protected the real value of the retirement pension and other related benefits. The law on mental health in England and Wales has been reformed. An Act has been passed to establish a system of unified housing benefit and to place a duty on employers to provide sick pay during the early weeks of sickness.
§ In Scotland the law relating to civic government has been modernised and other changes have been made in local authorities' functions and responsibilities.