§ Mr. Goodladasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether he will inform the House of the implications for public expenditure in Northern Ireland in 1981–82 of the announcement made to the House by the Chancellor of the Exchequer on 24 November.
§ Mr. Humphrey AtkinsThe policy changes in expenditure programmes for 1981–82 announced by my right hon. and learned Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer on 24 November 1980 imply a reduction of some £7 million for Northern Ireland. Northern Ireland Departments and the Northern Ireland Office will now prepare their Main Estimates for the incoming financial year within the framework set by the Government's overall economic strategy and taking into account the most up-to-date assessment of Northern Ireland's particular needs and circumstances.