Access to official statistics is equal and open.
This protocol describes how producers of official statistics will carry out their responsibilities in respect of release practices, as set out in the Statement of Principles and Protocols for Producers of Tier 1 Statistics. Consistent with the Statistics Act 1975, the results of a survey should be made publicly known and be easily accessible. This ensures that equal access to statistics is enjoyed by all users or potential users of the statistics, and methods and practices are readily available. This is best done by having the main results analysed and reported as statistical tables, along with graphs, maps and commentary to facilitate understanding and have them widely known. In analysing and reporting the findings of a collection, it is important that objectivity and professionalism is maintained. Information on how the data was compiled and analysed, and any qualifications and known limitations should accompany the findings. Also, in presenting statistics in tables, maps and graphs, care must be taken to present the data in ways which make it easy for the results to be understood and to avoid misleading or incorrect conclusions.
If statistics are ever accidentally or wrongfully released, a communications plan and a correction policy is in place to immediately attend to the situation. If errors are discovered after public release, a strategy is ready to replace the statistics as soon as practicable and in a transparent manner.
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