Census 2021 Covid-19 2021-03-25
2021-03-25
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
▸
Context
The question arises due to concerns over the ongoing covid-19 pandemic's effect on completing the 2021 census.
What assessment he has made of the effect of the covid-19 outbreak on the completion of the 2021 census?
The Office for National Statistics has assessed the census operation and made adjustments to ensure public and staff safety. The ONS remains on target to deliver a high-quality census, encouraging those who have not yet completed it to do so.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Direct Answer
▸
Context
Research suggests that approximately 40% of those aged 75 and over are digitally excluded, raising concerns about the fairness and representativeness of a digital-first census.
With research suggesting that 40% of those aged 75-plus are digitally excluded, what steps is the Minister taking to ensure that the now largely digital census does not result in a grossly skewed picture affecting long-term service provision for elderly people?
The ONS has taken extensive measures including telephone call centres to request paper forms, various types of support available for form completion, and extra assistance for communities that need it. The Minister encourages all Members to familiarise themselves with the ONS census website for fuller details.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy