asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what steps he intends to take to halt and reverse the erosion since 1976–77 of the differential between domestic and non-domestic rating.
As in England and Wales the differential between domestic and non-domestic rating in Northern Ireland has not changed since 1976–77. The differential in Northern Ireland therefore remains at 12p. However, increases in rates have meant a reduction in the percentage dif-
these bodies; these receipts are set out below separately. These can be regarded as a cash addition to the Northern Ireland economy. Other receipts, shown in the table as retained by the Government, benefit the Northern Ireland economy in that they have allowed the Government to finance a larger public expenditure programme than otherwise would have been the case.
ferential from 25 per cent. to 19·7 per cent. and I will be considering the position when reviewing the rates for 1981–82.