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Decisions
about the questions to be included in the 2001 Census were based on
extensive consultation with users and detailed evaluation of their
changing requirements for information across the UK.
A series of working groups were set up by the Office of
National Statistics to provide advice on the need for information on
a number of key topics including housing, the labour market,
migration, health, relationship and cultural issues such as
ethnicity, language and religion.
In addition to highlighting the demand for new questions,
representatives from these groups provided detailed advice and
feedback on the comprehensive programme of question testing and
evaluation. The conclusions reached as a result of these working
groups were used to assist in the development of the Census
questions that were common to all countries in the United Kingdom.
Additionally the NI Census Advisory Group, NI Governmental
Departments and those non-departmental public bodies with whom they
worked were also consulted on the Census questions, particularly
with  regard
to variations to them and the addition of new questions specific to
Northern Ireland.
Proposals
for the questions to be included in the 2001 Census were based on
detailed consideration of requirements identified by users. These
documents provided details about the use of census data,
highlighting the area level at which information was required, the
value of the data and the reasons why it was essential. More
specifically, recommendations took account of the following key
criteria.
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That there was a clearly demonstrated need; |
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That users requirements could not adequately be met by information
from other sources; |
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That they should be shown, in tests, to have had no significantly
adverse effect on the Census as a whole, particularly the level of
public response; |
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That practicable questions could be devised to collect data that is sufficiently
accurate to meet users requirements. |
The
Government’s proposals also took account of the results of a
programme of cognitive research and tests of census forms and
question wording. These tests were voluntary and the Government is
most grateful for the co-operation given by members of the public in
responding to them.
Further Information
Further information on the Census
questions and why they are asked are available in a factsheet
available in PDF format.
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