National Health Service (Expenditure)

HC Deb 11 May 1982 vol 23 cc229-30W

35. Mr. Marlow

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what proportion of gross national product is currently devoted to the National Health Service; and how this compares with 1979.

Mr. Kenneth Clarke

In 1979 total expenditure on the National Health Service represented 4.8 per cent. of the gross national product at market prices. It is provisionally estimated that the corresponding figure for 1982 will be 5.5 per cent.

36. Mr. Hoyle

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services when he will make a statement on the alternative funding of the National Health Service.

Mr. Fowler

I am still considering with colleagues the exploratory material provided by the interdepartmental working party.