To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what was the total cost to central and local government in each financial year since 1989–90 of administering the poll tax, including the costs of collection and enforcement.

The cost to local government in England of collecting and administering the community charge was £448 million in 1990–91, £467 million in 1991–92, and £449 million—estimated—in 1992–93. Local authorities have budgeted for costs of £ 145 million in 1993–94. Central Government do not have direct responsibility for these functions.