HC Deb 16 January 1986 vol 89 cc617-8W
Mr. Wigley

asked the Secretary of State for Wales what is the additional capital allocation proposed for local authorities in Wales for 1986–87 compared with 1985–86; and what is his estimate of (a) the additional annual loans charges and (b) the other revenue cost consequences arising which will arise from this increased capital allocation.

Mr. Nicholas Edwards

The total of capital allocations available to local authorities in Wales for 1986–87 is £322.8 million, compared with £263.3 million in 1985–86; an increase of some £60 million, or 23 per cent. Additional capital expenditure may increase revenue expenditure in two ways—loan charges to repay any borrowing, and current expenditure, arising from increases in associated manpower and running expenses. Provision for this expenditure increased by £25.7 million and £59.1 million respectively between 1985–6 and 1986–87. The precise effect on current expenditure will depend on the nature of the schemes undertaken. Indeed, in announcing allocations for individual authorities on 16 December I emphasised that authorities should give priority to revenue saving schemes, such as projects to eliminate surplus school places. In the case of housing, a substantial part of the additional resources have been incorporated into local procedures. Some authorities have commented on the working party's findings and these are being considered prior to the issue of a circular advising authorities on the implementation of the recommendations.

Mr. Ron Davies

asked the Secretary of State for Wales if he will state for each of the last five years the number of cervical smear tests conducted in each district of the Mid Glamorgan health authority and the total number for each of the other Welsh area health authorities.

Mr. Nicholas Edwards

The number of cervical cytology tests reported by pathology laboratories for each of the years 1980 to 1984 are given in the table. It is not possible to relate these figures to the district of residence of the patients tested. earmarked for public and private sector renovation, which does not, of course, result in increased current expenditure.

Mr. Wigley

asked the Secretary of State for Wales if he will specify the mechanism by which grant moneys which are withheld from local authorities in Wales will be credited back to local authorities in due course, and not redirected for use by other public services in Wales.

Mr. Nicholas Edwards

If aggregate expenditure by local authorities in Wales exceeds the level of provision in the rate support grant for 1986–87, there will be a net under-claim on block grant. As I indicated in my statement to the House on 18 December, any such surplus grant will be made available for local government spending in Wales. I shall await the budget returns of authorities before determining how this surplus might be distributed.