Since 2010, the question of which inflation index (Retail Price
Index (RPI) or Consumer Price Index (CPI)) should be used for
pension increases (in payment and deferment) has caused a huge
amount of uncertainty for pension schemes. The Government now
intends to bring the two indices together, by aligning RPI with CPIH (a variant on CPI which includes
owner-occupier housing costs). However, this will create further
questions for trustees and employers.
The question of whether to use RPI, CPI or
CPIH as the measure of inflation may seem like a technical
detail, as indeed it is. However, the impact can be very
material. The Government's proposals represent both a
threat and an opportunity, depending on your circumstances.