Government Borrowing

Oral Answers to Questions — National Finance – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 10 November 1964.

Alert me about debates like this

Photo of Mr Peter Walker Mr Peter Walker , Worcester 12:00, 10 November 1964

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if in future he will publish details of Government borrowing from overseas sources at monthly or quarterly intervals.

Photo of Mr Norman St John-Stevas Mr Norman St John-Stevas , Chelmsford

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how much money was borrowed by Her Majesty's Government from foreign central banks in the six months before 15th October. 1964, and how much has been borrowed since.

Photo of Mr Jack Diamond Mr Jack Diamond , Gloucester

It has not been the practice to disclose in the past the amount of transactions in recent months. I am considering future policy on this matter and would prefer not to commit myself to any fixed procedure for the present.

Photo of Mr Peter Walker Mr Peter Walker , Worcester

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that he has expressed a far more moderate view than that disclosed by his right hon. Friend the Prime Minister, who has accused my right hon. Friend the Member for Barnet (Mr. Maudling) of suppressing this information although it has been normal practice before not to publish? Is not this practice also likely to be the normal practice in future?

Photo of Mr Jack Diamond Mr Jack Diamond , Gloucester

I have listened to what the hon. Gentleman has said.