§ Mr. Anthony Grantasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what has been the cost to the taxpayer and ratepayer of each parliamentary by-election since February 1974.
§ Mr. Denzil DaviesThe total costs incurred by the Acting Returning Officers at the Newham, South by-election held on 23rd May 1974 and at the Woolwich, West by-election held on 26th June 1975 were £4,355 and £7,571 respectively. In addition, £3,549 and £7,912 were paid for certain free services provided by the Post Office. Settlement of the costs of by-elections held in 1976 has not yet been completed. The total costs of parliamentary1076W by-elections are borne entirely on the Consolidated Fund.