Part 1The Statistics Board

Official statistics: introductory

I17Objective

1

In the exercise of its functions under sections 8 to 21 the Board is to have the objective of promoting and safeguarding the production and publication of official statistics that serve the public good.

2

In subsection (1) the reference to serving the public good includes in particular—

a

informing the public about social and economic matters, and

b

assisting in the development and evaluation of public policy.

3

The Board is accordingly, in the exercise of its functions under sections 8 to 21, to promote and safeguard—

a

the quality of official statistics,

b

good practice in relation to official statistics, and

c

the comprehensiveness of official statistics.

4

In this Part references to the quality of any official statistics includes—

a

their impartiality, accuracy and relevance, and

b

their coherence with other official statistics.

5

In this Part references to good practice in relation to official statistics includes ensuring their accessibility.