§ 15. Mr. Chapmanasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the proportion of National Health Service total expenditure allocated to salaries and wages; and how this figure compares with six years before.
§ Mr. HayhoeIn 1984–85, 60 per cent. of National Health Service expenditure was devoted to salaries and wages, compared with 63 per cent. in 1979–80. The proportion varies between services. For example, staff costs accounted for 74 per cent. of health authority revenue spending in 1984–85.
§ Mr. ChapmanTotal expenditure on the Health Service has increased by more than 20 per cent. in real terms over that period. Do not my right hon. Friend's figures underline the fact that expenditure on medical equipment and services and new hospital building has risen at an even greater rate? Should he not spell out those facts to the public more clearly in the months ahead?
§ Mr. HayhoeThere certainly are misunderstandings about the increase in real resources for the Health Service during the lifetime of this Government. I am grateful to my hon. Friend for giving me another opportunity to draw attention to the facts of this matter.