HC Deb 24 March 1977 vol 928 cc642-3W
Mr. Cowans

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he has received any representations from sources outside the House expressing concern at the withdrawal of regional employment premium; and if he will name the sources and the nature of the representations made.

Mr. Joel Barnett

My right hon. Friend has received a number of representations on this subject from various sources.

Mr. Cowans

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what has been the saving in public expenditure nationally arising from the decision to abolish the regional employment premium.

Mr. Joel Barnett

The abolition of the regional employment premium is expected to save some £150 million in 1977–78 and about £170 million in 1978–79 and thereafter.

Mr. Cowans

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what has been the saving in public expenditure in the Northern Region arising from the decision to abolish the regional employment premium.

Mr. Joel Barnett

Payments of regional employment premium in the Northern Region would have cost about £47 million in 1977–78.