The changes in the British national debt, particularly the increase after 1762, were largely due to the expenses incurred from the Seven Years' War and the subsequent need for revenue to manage the empire, especially in North America. In response to these financial pressures, legislation was enacted to raise revenue from the colonies.
Among the choices provided, the most relevant piece of legislation passed after 1762 that corresponds with efforts to manage the national debt and raise revenue from the American colonies is:
(Choice D) The Townshend Acts
The Townshend Acts were enacted in 1767 and aimed to tax goods imported to the American colonies, contributing to the financial situation highlighted in the chart. The other options either were enacted before 1762 or are not directly related to the financial situation in the same way.