§ Mr. NellistTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what is the average poll tax for 1990–91 in England and Wales; how many people are registered for the poll tax; and how much extra central Government finance would be necessary for the average poll tax to be reduced by(a) 10 per cent., (b) 25 per cent., (c) 50 per cent., (d) 75 per cent. and (e) 100 per cent.
§ Mr. Key[holding answer 15 March 1991]: In 1990–91 there are 36 million charge payers in England and the average community charge is £357. Authorities have budgeted to raise £10.2 billion from the charge net of community charge benefits and transitional relief grant. This can be reduced without any extra central Government finance if authorities control their expenditure and improve their efficiency.
Information for Wales is a matter for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Wales.