Independent Review of Methodology

Please note: the Beyond 2011 programme closed in January 2015. The Census Transformation Programme (CTP) is developing the 2021 Census.

Office for National Statistics (ONS) commissioned this report. We asked the review team to:

• provide independent assurance that the methodology and statistical research is based upon sound research and a strong evidence base

• identify areas where evidence could be significantly improved

• identify the main risks with the emerging view, noting any particular problems and challenges with the methods recommended and any further work required to mitigate these risks and challenges

ONS published a response to those recommendations (166KB, PDF) on 1 May 2014.

May 2014 – Ian Cope statement

I am very grateful to Chris Skinner, John Hollis and Mike Murphy for the thorough and accessible report they have produced. I welcome the team's recommendations.

Ian Cope Executive Director – Population and Demography