§ Mr. Viggersasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what was the total amount of Government debt on 6th March 1974, or the nearest convenient date thereto, and on 6th March 1977, or the nearest convenient date thereto.
§ Mr. Joel BarnettAn estimate of outstanding public sector debt is compiled only in respect of 31st March each year. On 31st March 1974 it is estimated to have been £53 billion, at nominal values. On 31st March 1976 it is provisionally estimated to have been £73.5 billion, at nominal values. Taking account of the public sector borrowing requirement between 31st March and 31st December 1976, but not of other influences on the nominal value of debt, the outstanding amount of public sector debt can be roughly estimated to have been some £81 billion, at nominal values, at 31st December 1976.