Local Government Expenditure 28. Mr. Dodsworth asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what response he has had to his circular on local government expenditure dated 23rd December 1974. Mr. John Silkin A number of local authorities have sought detailed technical guidance in interpreting the circular. The general indications are that authorities are seeking to moderate the rate of growth of their services as the circular advises. 30. Mr. Hannam asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what progress has been made with regard to the voluntary monitoring system for local government expenditure. Mr. John Silkin There is no system for monitoring the expenditure of individual authorities but the Department's Circular No. 171/74 gave specific guidance to local authorities on the way in which they could secure reductions in the rate of growth of their services. Local authorities have found this useful.