Why aren't more surgeries performed with local anaesthetic? wouldn't it be cheaper and safer than general? is it because people would move?

Yes and no: Many surgeries can be performed with sedation and local anesthesia. Surgery that requires complete immobility would require general anesthesia. Some surgeons prefer general anesthesia for that reason. As a patient, you have a choice as to what type of anesthesia you would like. The anesthesiologist can discuss the options with you.

Good ?: Many minor and not so minor things can be done under local with sedation , safely. It takes a doctor well versed in doing it that. Excellent for many hernias, ask your doc if you are scheduled for something , it is always a fair?