The decision to hold a census in 2031 was confirmed by the government in July last year, after the UK Statistics Authority recommended that it should go ahead.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) is inviting users of population statistics to respond to the consultation, which will be used to inform census topics as well as other work within ONS.

For each of the 13 census topic groups, the ONS is asking about: the purposes users use census data for; users’ requirements for Census 2031 data; how they use census data at small geographies; and how they compare census data with other census variables.

The consultation, which opened in October, will close on 4^th February.

Alongside the census topic consultation, the Government Statistical Service is running a separate consultation to collect views on additional response options which may be needed for a new harmonised standard for collecting ethnicity data. The consultation will also close on 4^th February.

Darren Tierney, permanent secretary at the Office for National Statistics, said: “My ambition is for Census 2031 to build on the success of Census 2021. It will take a digital-first and inclusive approach, making best use of administrative data to support data collection and quality, and we will work closely with colleagues within the devolved governments to produce coherent outputs.  

“By responding to this consultation, you will play a key role in informing which topics are included, ensuring that Census 2031 provides the most valuable outputs for informing pivotal policy decisions.”