asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is his estimate of the number of people who will pay income tax in 1980–81; and what is the comparable figure for 1979–80.

The estimated number of persons paying income tax in 1980–81, taking account of the proposed increases in personal allowances, is 25.9 million. This is the same as the corresponding figure for 1979–80. Earning wives are counted separately from their husbands.