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Business of the House

That is not the situation at all; we are pressing forward with important defence procurement. Regarding the enthusiasm for that subject shown by Opposition Members, I say to them that receipts coming into the Treasury are decreasing because of stamp duty and the retail sector is declining, so VAT receipts are decreasing. If defence spending is to be maintained at such a time—we have committed to do so—borrowing has to increase. I hope that all of those who want defence procurement to continue will support our decision to allow borrowing to rise.