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Scotland's Census - Almost There!

Only 73,000 Census forms are still be to be returned in Scotland out of the 2.3 million delivered to householders, giving an average return rate of 97 per cent just three weeks after Census Day on 29 April. Returns from nine of Scotland's 32 local authority areas are now complete, 14 are above the average of 97 per cent, while nine are under the national average. In those council areas the Census field staff are being retained for another week in order to make further calls on the few householders who have yet to complete or return their forms.

Returns in Glasgow and West Dumbartonshire have improved considerably over the weekend and both are now over 90 per cent, at 91 per cent and 93 per cent respectively. Despite the increase in returns these areas are still showing the lowest returns.

Registrar General for Scotland, John Randall, said: "We are now so close to achieving total success with the 2001 Census. I must thank everyone in the council areas around Scotland who have achieved substantively 100% returns, and those where I expect similar splendid results in the next few days. I also have nothing but praise for the 8000 Census field staff who have made enormous efforts to ensure every house has received forms and that so many have been returned so quickly.

"To those 73,000 householders who might have forgotten about their Census form, or who don't think it is important, I have to say again, please get these forms back as soon as you can. We need every one of them so that the statistics on which Scotland's future spending priorities are decided are absolutely accurate and up to date. And again, I have to remind these 73,000 householders that it is their legal duty to complete and return the Census form, and that deliberate failure to do so could lead to prosecution and a fine of up to £1000."

Notes to Editors

The current returns, by Local Authority area, up to 20 May, are:

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