asked the Minister for Finance the total amount borrowed by the Government during the period 30th September, 1957 to 30th September, 1967.
78.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Government Borrowing.
77.
asked the Minister for Finance the total amount of the national debt at 30th September, 1967 and at 30th September, 1957.
79.
asked the Minister for Finance the total amount of the national debt at present.
I propose, with your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, to take Questions Nos. 77, 78 and 79 together.
The national debt comprises not only Exchequer borrowings but also the capitalised value of commitments under the Telephone Capital Acts, the Land Acts and the Housing Acts. It is computed only at the end of each financial year. At 31st March. 1957, it was £342 million and at 31st March. 1967, £771 million. The amount of net Exchequer borrowing in this ten-year period was £489 million.
You learned your lesson in South America.
A good part of it was capital for housing. I am sure the Deputy would not object to that.
I would not.
You built fewer houses.