Mr. Bernard Gloster:

The request fluctuated between variations of ELS. The recorded position based on the best evidence available to us at budget time was that the problem would cost somewhere in the region of €1 billion or €1.5 billion, based on the cost base. However, there have been substantial reductions in the cost base and efficiencies have been put forward for 2024, which we hope will mitigate the issue. I have set out all of the conditions to do with inflation, demand and the success of our efficient management of the resource. My responsibility as a senior public servant is obviously to aim for the lowest level of deficit and best level of service possible. It is a work in progress but 2024 will be a very challenging year. I say this against the backdrop of further and new investment.