§ Mr. Wigleyasked the Secretary of State for Wales what has been the estimated percentage increase or decrease in local government spending in Wales, in real terms, between the year 1977–78 and the current financial year.
§ Mr. Nicholas EdwardsThe estimated change in local authority spending in Wales between 1977–78 and 1981–82 is —0.3 per cent. for relevant current expenditure and 34.6 per cent. for capital expenditure. The detailed figures are given in the following table: 33W
£ million Relevant current expenditure* Capital expenditure† 1977–78 (Revalued to 1981–82 outturn prices) 1,091 321 1981–82 (estimated outturn) 1,088ߥ 210** Percentage change 1977–78 to 1981–82 -0.3 34.6 * Expenditure on maintaining the continuing costs of local authority services. The financing of capital expenditure incurred in previous years is not included; nor is expenditure on certain items met almost entirely from central Government funds, such as mandatory student awards. † Expenditure net of receipts from the sales of fixed assets. ‡ Derived from revised estimates submitted by local authorities in October 1981. ** Forecast based on the Capital Payments return for the period ending 30 September 1981.