Office for Statistics Regulation Publishes Strategy for 2026–2029

The Office for Statistics Regulation (OSR) has set out its priorities for the next three years, focused on strengthening trust and confidence in official statistics.

The strategy outlines four themes:

1. Credible and Rigorous Regulator

OSR will deliver timely, evidence-based reviews of compliance with the Code of Practice for Statistics, set and enforce clear deadlines for improvements, and strengthen transparency by publicly reporting progress. This approach ensures robust, well-communicated judgements that uphold Trustworthiness, Quality and Value.

2. System Catalyst

OSR will act as a catalyst for improvement across the statistical system by identifying risks and opportunities, sharing good practice, and supporting innovation. This includes promoting openness, responsiveness and curiosity, and providing guidance on emerging issues.

3. Public use of statistics

OSR will defend the appropriate use of statistics in public debate, intervening firmly when statistics are misused or misleading. We will promote intelligent transparency and the Standards for the Public Use of Statistics, Data and Wider Analysis, undertake research into the public good provided by statistics, and build partnerships to reinforce norms of integrity and openness.

4. Enhance our own Trustworthiness, Quality and Value

OSR will exemplify the principles it demands of others by embedding independence, transparency and integrity across our operations.

This approach reflects growing demand for trustworthy data and the need to address risks around quality and misinformation. OSR will continue to put the Code of Practice for Statistics at the centre of everything we do.

Ed Humpherson, Director General for Regulation, said:

“Our strategy is about ensuring statistics serve the public good. We will act firmly and fairly to uphold standards, support innovation and support appropriate use of statistics.”