HC Deb 25 March 1985 vol 76 cc78-9W
Mr. Dewar

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what percentage of the total expenditure of local authorities in Scotland and of revenue expenditure is met by central Government support in the latest year for which figures are available; and what was the comparable figure in the year 1979–80.

Mr. Younger

On the basis of budget information contained in the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy publication "Rating Review", the percentage of total local authority expenditure met by central Government support in 1979–80 and 1984–85 is as follows:

per cent.
1979–80 62.3
1984–85 55.4

Notes:

1. For the purpose of this question, total local authority expenditure is relevant expenditure for rate support grant purposes, including loan charges, total rate fund contributions to the housing revenue account and total rate fund contributions to other non-relevant services.

2. Central Government support is specific revenue grants and rate support grant.

3. Actual expenditure and grant may differ from the estimates provided.