The reason it is necessary to put matters in context is the Government has attempted to exercise fiscal prudence since it became apparent towards the last quarter of 2001 that there was a definite reduction in growth and economic activity, fuelled by the tragic events of 11 September 2001. It was obvious to financial commentators prior to that that there was a slowing down of economic activity. There is no doubt that, based on the record inside and outside this House and the figures circulated by the Department of Finance before and after the general election, the Government was aware of what was happening. It was transparent and conveyed the relevant details to the public.