§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer to what extent the 6 per cent. cash limit for public authorities will be allowed to rise to compensate for the announced 10 per cent. rise in the cost of fuel by early 1981 and 17 per cent. rise by the latter part of 1981; and what measures he proposes to enable public authorities to counter the difficulties and adverse effects caused by these fuel price increases.
§ Mr. BiffenAs announced on 24 November 1980—[Vol. 994, c. 337–38]—by my right hon. and learned Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer, cash limits and Votes for expenditure other than pay will allow for an average level of prices in 1981–82 11 per cent. higher than the corresponding level in 1980–81. It is for spending authorities to allocate this provision as they consider appropriate in the light of likely cost increases in particular areas.