Launch of Consultation on Next Census

15 March 2007

The Registrar General is calling on people to help shape the questions to be included in Scotland’s next Census.

The 2011 census will provide the most comprehensive overview of Scotland’s demographics for 10 years. A consultation has been launched today asking for views on what questions should be included in the next census and how it should be carried out.

The Registrar General Duncan Macniven said:

“The next census could be the most difficult yet to carry out because Scotland’s population is more diverse and mobile than ever before. Already we have tried out new or amended questions on a range of issues such as ethnicity and occupation during the census tests.

However, we need more input on exactly what questions the people of Scotland should be asked. We only get one chance to get the census right. The statistical data collected through the censuses is paramount to the work of public and private organisations throughout Scotland and the UK.

Every household in Scotland will be required to complete the census form in 2011. We need people and organisations who use the census results to tell us how best we can present the questions and what questions they need us to ask to collect the best set of data for Scotland.”

The consultation will run for 12 weeks, up to 7 June. Comments and suggestions can be made either online or by post.

The consultation document is available;

for download at Formal Consultations; or
as a paper copy by contacting 'Census Consultation - 2011' using our Contact Form.

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