asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is his estimated expenditure for relieving urban deterioration in Newcastle-upon-Tyne for 1977–78; and how that compares with 1975–76 and 1976–77.

Expenditure in relief of urban deterioration is a matter for local authority decision. According to the latest information, Government grants and subsidies to the city in 1975–76 and 1976–77 were £45·9 million and £49·9 million respectively. I cannot provide a comprehensive estimate for 1977–78.