Dear Lord Forsyth,
Further to my letter of 13 January, I am writing to confirm that the UK Statistics Authority and HM Treasury have today launched a consultation on reform to the methodology of the Retail Prices Index (RPI). I enclose a copy of the consultation document, which invites responses from today until 22 April.
The Authority is seeking feedback from the widest possible range of users on the technical approach to bringing the methods and data sources of the CPIH measure of inflation into the RPI. We are holding events across the UK, in London, Belfast, Manchester and Birmingham, as well as working closely with the devolved administrations. Further information on the consultation and how we are encouraging people to engage can be found on our website.
I am copying this letter to the Chancellor and to the Chairs of the Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee and Treasury Committee.
Yours sincerely,
Sir David Norgrove