asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether his Department will collect information of the number of adults who enjoy index-linked benefits, incomes or pensions.

I have been asked to reply.There are no plans to collect information on the number of adults who enjoy index-linked incomes. Government policy clearly leaves it to employers and management to determine the appropriate pattern and manner of remuneration subject to the limitations imposed by what they can afford to pay.Sufficient information about index-linked social security benefits is available and the Government Actuary's four-yearly survey produces information, which is published, about index-linked occupational pensions.