HC Deb 07 June 1990 vol 173 cc705-6W
45. Mr. Ralph Howell

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what was the average annual public spending from(a) 1970 to 1979 and (b) 1980 to 1989 as a percentage of gross domestic product.

Mr. Norman Lamont

The averages of the annual ratios of general Government expenditure (excluding privatisation proceeds) to GDP for the financial years 1970–71 to 1979–80 and 1980–81 to 1989–90 are 43¾per cent. for both periods. In the earlier period the ratio peaked at 48½ per cent. in 1975–76. The highest level in the later period was 46¾ per cent. in 1982–83; the ratio in 1989–90 was 39 per cent.

54. Mr. Tim Smith

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how much total public spending will be in 1991–92.

Mr. Norman Lamont

Planned general Government expenditure, excluding privatisation proceeds, in 1991–92 has been set at £230 billion.