§ Sir Adam Butlerasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the amount by which the person currently on average earnings has changed his standard of living, measured by the percentage increase in earnings over the increase in retail prices, since May 1979.
§ Mr. LawsonAfter adjusting for the change in retail prices, average earnings increased by 14 per cent. between May 1979 and December 1985. When changes in income tax and national insurance contributions are also taken into account, the increase in real average earnings after tax was 16 per cent.