HC Deb 16 January 1986 vol 89 cc649-50W
28. Mr. Hirst

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what recent representations he has received on the likely trend of inflation in 1986.

Mr. Ian Stewart

Most outside forecasts are broadly in line with the autumn statement which forecasts the annual rate of increase in the RPI declining to 3¾per cent. by the fourth quarter of 1986.

37. Mr. Stern

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment he makes as to the relative impact of inflation on those of (a) below average and (b) above average incomes.

Mr. Ian Stewart

Apart from the pensioner price indices, measures of inflation for separate income groups are not compiled.

39. Mr. David Atkinson

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is his estimate of the inflation rate for 1986.

Mr. Ian Stewart

A forecast of 3¾per cent. for the rate of inflation, as measured by the increase in the retail prices index, in the fourth quarter of 1986 was given in the autumn statement.

42. Mr. Portillo

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether he will make a statement on the current factors affecting the rate of inflation.

Mr. Ian Stewart

Many factors affect inflation, but further progress on reducing it requires the maintenance of sound financial conditions. The prospects for inflation are set out in the autumn statement.

45. Mr. Leigh

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

Mr. Ian Stewart

Over the 12 months to November 1985, the retail prices index increased by 5.5 per cent.