HC Deb 10 April 1975 vol 889 cc476-7W
Mr. Costain

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what is the estimated expenditure of the Hong Kong Government for 1975–76; and how much extra revenue will have to be raised above potential revenue at present tax rates.

Mr. Ennuis

The estimated expenditure of the Hong Kong Government for 1975–76 is HK$ 6,615 million. Based on tax rates and fees and charges prevailing when the budget was introduced, revenue was estimated at HK$ 5,719 million, leaving a deficit of HK$ 896 million.

Mr. Costain

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how the additional revenue needed to meet increased expenditure for 1975–76 will be raised by the Hong Kong Government.

Mr. Ennals

The Hong Kong Government propose to raise HK$ 465 million by increasing various taxes, fees and charges. It is intended to raise the balance of HK$ 431 million by loan finance.

Mr. Costain

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what percentage of the total expenditure of the Hong Kong Government in 1975–76 will go on social services, including education, medical and health, housing, social welfare and labour.

Mr. Ennals

The share of expenditure on social services in 1975–76 in the consolidated account will be 46.8 per cent. on recurrent account and 41.8 per cent. on both recurrent and capital account taken together.

Mr. Costain

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many extra places in secondary schools will be provided by the Hong Kong Government in the budget for 1975–76.

Mr. Ennals

20,044.