Moving to the Code of Practice for Statistics Edition 3.0

Purpose of the Guidance

This guidance sets out how the Office for Statistics Regulation (OSR) will be applying the Code of Practice for Statistics Edition 3.0 (Code 3.0) from launch. It is primarily intended for Heads of Profession for Statistics, Chief Statisticians, Senior Statisticians, Lead Officials and other producers of official statistics. 

Code 3.0 reflects evolving standards and expectations for how statistics are produced, used and shared. We want to make sure that you are fully aware of the changes and are equipped with the tools that you need to start embedding the refreshed Code into your teams’ work from day one. Early planning and active engagement following the launch of Code 3.0 will be essential to ensuring a smooth transition. 

Transition from Code 2.1 to 3.0

Heads of Profession are expected to begin applying the principles of Code 3.0 from the launch date – 30 October 2025. While the Code is effective immediately, we recognise that teams will need time to adjust. Time will be allowed for updates to processes, staff training and system adaptations. More detail around our expectations is given in the following sections. 

During this transition phase, OSR will take a proportionate and pragmatic approach to compliance. Guidance and support will be available to help you navigate the transition, and we will consider: 

• Specific departmental circumstances. 

• Existing publication plans and timelines. 

• The fact that some areas of Code 3.0 are new, though not necessarily new to statistical practice. 

The following sections detail the arrangements for transitioning to the use of Code 3.0. There are three sections of the Code that need to be considered, which are addressed in the following order: the Standards for Official Statistics; the Standards for the Public Use of Statistics, Data and Wider Analysis; and the Code Principles.