HC Deb 21 November 1983 vol 49 c42W
Mr. Fisher

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he is satisfied with the level of expenditure on books in schools.

Mr. Dunn

The level of provision of books in some schools and in some authorities is a cause for concern. The level of provision in 1984–85 will depend critically upon local authorities' ability to contain their costs, in particular, pay settlements. If costs are contained the Government's plans should enable most authorities in aggregate to improve provision of new books and equipment compared with the 1981–82 level; more money for pay would mean less for other things.