Scotland's Population 2003: The Registrar General's Annual Review of Demographic Trends

STATISTICAL SERVICE IN SCOTLAND

This is a National Statistics publication. It has been produced to high professional standards set out in the National Statistics Code of Practice and Release Practice Protocol. http://www.statistics.gov.uk/about_ns/cop/default.asp

These statistics undergo regular quality assurance reviews to ensure that they meet customer needs. They are produced free from any political interference.

OUR AIM

The aim of the Government Statistical Service – of which Statistics Division of the General Register Office for Scotland is part – is to provide relevant and reliable information, analysis and advice that meet the needs of government, business and the people of Scotland.

OBJECTIVES

1. To produce statistics and analysis relevant to user needs by

Developing the range of statistics and analysis we produce;
Where practicable improving timeliness;
Providing more statistics disaggregated by age, gender and ethnicity;
Developing more data for small areas through the Neighbourhood Statistics project;
Contributing to production of comparable statistics across the UK and internationally.

2. To ensure effective use of our statistics by

Contributing more directly to policy processes inside and where possible outside government;
Improving access to and presentation of data and analysis;
Improving the advice provided on statistics.

3. To work effectively with users and providers by

Maintaining arrangements to consult and involve users and providers;
Involving users and providers in planning developments in outputs and processes.

4. To develop the quality of statistics by

Assuring and improving quality as an integral part of data collection and analysis and through regular reviews in line with National Statistics quality strategy;
Developing statistical methods, systems and classifications;
Working with the rest of the Government Statistical Service to develop joint approaches/solutions where appropriate.

5. To assure the integrity of statistics by

Maintaining and promoting integrity through implementation of the National Statistics Code of Practice and related protocols;
Safeguarding the confidentiality of data subjects.

6. To ensure the efficient and effective delivery of statistics products and services by

Making best use of all sources including administrative sources;
Minimising the burden on data providers through survey monitoring & advice;
Ensuring value for money;
Making best use of information and communications technology;
Working with other analysts;
Ensuring effective communication within the Statistician Group.

7. To develop our workforce and competences

Ensuring recruitment of staff with the necessary skills and potential;
Ensuring development of expertise amongst existing staff;
Promoting and upholding the standards of the statistics profession.
Details of pre-release access are provided on the General Register Office for Scotland website under ‘Future Publications’.

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