In our latest State of the Statistical System report, we set out the successes and challenges faced by the UK’s statistical system over the last year. The report highlights opportunities for innovation and progress, recognising the scale of these opportunities and challenges. We acknowledge that these cannot be addressed by the system alone. And so, we are calling on governments across the four nations to be visible champions of analysis, by advocating for and supporting the statistical system in harnessing the opportunities identified.
Embedding transparency in the use and release of statistics and data
We want the government to bolster public confidence in the use of analytical evidence across government by adopting an open, clear and accessible approach by default to the release and use of data and statistics. We call this approach intelligent transparency. It requires statistical claims and statements made by ministers, departments and other public bodies to be based on data that are equally accessible to everyone, clearly defined and transparently presented. To further embed this approach across government, the government should publish its analytical evidence to support public accountability whenever possible, especially when analysis is used or quoted publicly.
Removing barriers and supporting opportunities for data sharing and linkage
While the significant benefits of data sharing and data linkage are well acknowledged, and there are commendable pockets of innovative efforts in these areas, challenges persist. These include the public’s attitude to, and confidence in, data sharing and culture and processes in government. Two recent independent reviews, Professor Lievesley’s for the Cabinet Office and Parliament’s inquiry on improving the UK’s evidence base, agree with us: it is time to address these challenges.
We urge the government to make data sharing the norm across its departments. Strong political leadership is crucial to manage perceived risks and capitalise on data sharing opportunities for better research and policymaking. Centralising data and digital policy in the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology could help, but it requires backing from No 10, the Cabinet Office and the Treasury.
A new UK Government has a fresh opportunity to set expectations across both government and the broader public sector and to drive a data-sharing revolution. If it is serious about being “mission-led” – with goals crossing departmental lines – seizing this opportunity will be all the more important.
Ensuring sufficient resource is in place to meet increased demand
Statistics producers are continuing to see increased demands for new statistics and insight, but there is an apparent mismatch between this demand and the supply of resources. This mismatch poses a risk of creating data gaps in areas crucial for supporting policy and decision-making. The government must ensure that any initiatives aimed at increasing efficiency do not compromise analytical quality and expertise. Rather, the government should encourage the statistical system to operate more flexibly and to identify areas where it can work in a more joined-up way to deliver the public good.
By taking these actions, the government can address the challenges faced by the statistical system, whilst upholding trust and ensuring that statistics serve the public good.
Notes to Editors