§ Mr. Meacherasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) what has been the total expenditure on the personal social services each year since 1970 at (a) current prices and (b) 1983 prices; and what were these totals as a percentage of gross national product each year;
(2) what has been the expenditure on the personal social services each year since 1970, both at current prices and at 1983 prices; what was the percentage increase over each of these years; and what were each of these totals as a percentage of gross national product each year.
§ Mr. Kenneth Clarke[pursuant to the replies of 11 November 1983, c. 250 and 14 November 1983 c. 334]: The figures requested by the hon. Member are as follows:
* Up to 30 Septemper.
Notes:
(1) Figures for 1974–79 are derived from a special survey carried out in 1980. Figures for 1980–83 are derived from summaries collated quarterly within the Department.
(2) Figures for 1983 do not include three hospitals involving 329 beds approved for closure by Ministers since 30 September.
(3) Temporary closures are not included.
(4) Dates on which closures are implemented are not recorded centrally.