Dear Dido

Reasons for getting a COVID-19 test: Survey of regional and local testing sites

I am writing to welcome the publication yesterday of the Covid-19 survey of regional and local testing sites. The survey is available at the following website location:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/survey-reasons-for-getting-a-coronavirus-covid-19-test/reasons-for-getting-a-covid-19-test-survey-of-regional-and-local-testing-sites-between-1-and-4-september

Publication of this information, following discussion with the Office for Statistics Regulation, ensures that data referred to in public debate is equally available to all and enhances transparency.

The background is that on 9 September, you referred to the results of a survey undertaken by NHS Test and Trace as part of oral evidence you provided to the House of Commons Science and Technology Committee. The survey results included the percentage of people who, having booked a test, do not appear to be eligible for one because they have no symptoms. As part of your evidence, you said that the underlying evidence would be published, which has now been done.

Thank you for arranging publication of this information.

I am copying this letter to Stephen Balchin, Head of Profession for Statistics at the Department for Health and Social Care, and William Wragg MP, Chair of the House of Commons Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Select Committee.

Yours sincerely

 

Ed Humpherson

Director General for Regulation