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The federal government’s deficit was $9.8 billion for the April-to-August period.

The Finance Department’s latest fiscal monitor says the result compared with a deficit of $4.3 billion during the same period a year earlier.

Revenue for the period rose by $16.7 billion or 9.3% compared with a year earlier due to increases in all major categories.

Program expenses excluding net actuarial losses rose by $17.9 billion or 11%, as Ottawa spent more on direct program expenses, major transfers to persons and major transfers to provinces, territories and municipalities.

Public debt charges were up by $4.4 billion or 23.1%, mostly due to higher interest on marketable bonds and treasury bills.

Net actuarial losses were unchanged.