asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is satisfied with the level of public investment.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is satisfied with the current level of public investment in the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement.

Public expenditure plans for 1982–83 published last March included £11·7 billion for capital expenditure, £6·2 billion of which was for the acquisition of physical assets by central, local government and certain public corporations. The remainder was capital grants and loans to the private sector and to other public corporations, mainly the nationalised industries. Total public sector investment in fixed assets in 1982–83 was set at £13·8 billion.These plans allow for the continued upgrading of public amentities and services, whilst reflecting the Government's policy of giving priority to worthwhile capital projects within the resources available.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what proposals he has for increasing the level of public investment without increasing the rate of inflation.

The best way to ensure that extra public investment does not raise the rate of inflation is to choose projects that earn an adequate rate of return and can be accommodated within existing totals for public expenditure.