HC Deb 16 May 1984 vol 60 c181W
Mr. Winnick

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he has any plans to introduce a freeze on construction work by local authorities; and if he will make a statement.

Sir George Young

Capital expenditure by local authorities is subject to cash limits. If we received evidence that those cash limits were in danger of being breached, we would have to consider what action should be taken. We have no evidence yet of a need to consider action to restrict local capital spending in 1984–85. We would take action only if it were necessary and unavoidable.