§ 74. Mr. THORNEasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what has been the increase in the National Debt for the years 1931–32, 1932–33 and 1933–34?
§ Mr. COOPERFull particulars of the changes in the National Debt in the years in question are published in the annual National Debt Return for 1934, Command Paper No. 4697. I would also refer the hon. Member to the answer given to the hon. Member for Fulham East (Mr. Wilmot) on the 4th December last for an explanation of the changes.
§ Mr. THORNEDo I understand from the reply that there has been an increase in the National Debt? If so, can the hon. Member give the House any information why there has been an increase?
§ Mr. COOPERThere has been a considerable increase, and full information has been given.
§ Mr. THORNEBut what has been the cause? Is it due to the fact that the Government are not paying their way?
§ Mr. COOPERNo, Sir, that has nothing whatever to do with it. If the hon. Member will refer to the answer, he will see the explanation.