§ 30. Mr. ChallenTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will make a statement on what recent measures he has taken to promote the improvement of public services. [11362]
§ Mr. Andrew SmithThe Government's prudent stewardship of public finances since 1997 has made it possible to provide unprecedented levels of investment for key public services. £43 billion of additional funding has been allocated to Departmental Expenditure Limits by 2003–04. Three quarters of these increased funds will be spent in the Government's priority areas of health, education, transport, housing and law and order. This investment in public services is tied to commitments by Departments to deliver improved service standards and key reforms, the targets for which are set out in their public service agreements.