§ 90. Mr. BurnsTo ask the Minister for the Arts how many new libraries have been established in the last three years.
§ Mr. LuceThis information is not kept centrally, but I understand that recent research suggests that between January 1987 and December 1989, over 75 new library buildings or substantial extensions to buildings were completed. Capital expenditure on libraries by local authorities in England, which includes spending on new buildings, has increased from £23 million to over £41 million in the three years to 1988–89.