HC Deb 21 November 1983 vol 49 cc72-3W
Mr. Churchill

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what has been the percentage increase in real terms between the years 1978–79 and 1982–83 in the expenditure of his Department.

Mr. Fowler

Between 1978–79 and 1982–83 spending on social security and health and personal social services increased by 22 per cent. more than the retail price index. There have however been changes in the social security responsibilities of my Department between the two years in particular on housing benefits.