§ Mr. Malcolm BruceTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what is the planned real change in spending on the national health service between 1995–96 and 1996–97 expressed(a) in percentage terms and (b) as an absolute sum; and if she will make a statement. [28143]
§ Mr. SackvilleGovernment spending on the national health service is planned to be £32.9 billion in 1996–97. This is an increase of 0.5 per cent. in real terms over 1995–96 plans, equivalent to some £160 million at 1995–96 prices. Plans for 1996–97 are subject to review in the public expenditure survey.