asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will estimate the level of income in current prices and expressed as a percentage of national average earnings above which single people, married couples and married couples with two children in each case now pay less income tax and national insurance contributions—less child benefit where applicable—as a total sum of money in constant prices and as a proportion of gross earnings than they did in 1978–79; and whether he will estimate the same level of income for 1983–84 on the basis of announced policy changes and the conventional assumptions incorporated in the latest forecast required under the Industry Act 1975.

I shall let the hon. Member have a reply as soon as possible.