Local Government Expenditure

Mr. Wigley
asked the Secretary of State for Wales what has been the estimated percentage increase or decrease in local government spending in Wales, in real terms, between the year 1977–78 and the current financial year.

Mr. Nicholas Edwards
The estimated change in local authority spending in Wales between 1977–78 and 1981–82 is —0·3 per cent. for relevant current expenditure and 34·6 per cent. for capital expenditure. The detailed figures are given in the following table: ----------------------------------------------
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|1977–78 (Revalued to 1981–82 outturn prices)|
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|1981–82 (estimated outturn)                 |
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|Percentage change 1977–78 to 1981–82        |
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