HC Deb 27 January 1983 vol 35 cc512-3W
16. Mr. Greenway

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what were the average annual rates of inflation between 1974 and May 1979 and May 1979 and January 1983; and if he will make a statement.

18. Mr. Timothy Smith

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the latest annual increase in inflation; and how this compares with the figure a year previously.

Sir Geoffrey Howe

The annual average rate of inflation between February 1974 and May 1979 was 15.4 per cent., compared with an annual average increase of 12.1 per cent. between May 1979 and December 1982, which is the latest figure available. The increase in the retail prices index in the 12 months to December 1982 was 5.4 per cent., compared with an increase of 12 per cent. in the 12 months to December 1981.

31. Mr. Heddle

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the current rate of inflation.

Sir Geoffrey Howe

Over the 12 months to December 1982, the increase in the retail prices index was 5.4 per cent.

42. Mr. Marlow

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how the current rate of inflation compares with that of one year and two years before.

Sir Geoffrey Howe

The increase in the retail prices index in the 12 months to December 1982 was 5.4 per cent., compared with an increase of 12 per cent. in the 12 months to December 1981 and an increase of 15.1 per cent. in the 12 months to December 1980.