To ask the Secretary of State for Social Services to what extent the unit cost of registration of births, marriages and deaths has changed, in real terms (a) since 1979 and (b) since the efficiency scrutiny in 1985.

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Services to what extent the unit cost of registration of births, marriages and deaths has changed in real terms (a) since 1979 and (b) since the efficiency scrutiny in 1985.

Firm local figures are available to 1985–86, current figures will be available later this year. From 1979–80 to 1985–86 the aggregate unit cost of registering births, civil marriages and deaths rose in real terms by 4·2 per cent. when compared against the retail prices index. This was, however, significantly less than the average salary increase of those administering the local registration service over the same period.