Public Sector Borrowing Requirement

HC Deb 04 April 1989 vol 150 cc5-6W

Mr. Harry Greenway

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what was the public sector borrowing requirement five, 10, 15 and 20 years ago; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Lilley

The information requested is as follows:

Public sector borrowing requirement
	£ billion	Ratio to GDP (per cent.)
1968–69	0.4	¾
1973–74	4.3	5¾
1978–79	9–2	5¼
1983–84	9–7	3¼

These are in marked contrast to 1988–89 when the public sector is expected to show a net repayment of £14 billion, equivalent to 3 per cent. of GDP. The Government have also been able to budget for a £14 billion surplus in 1989–90.