Think TQV: How Trustworthiness, Quality and Value provide an ethical framework for building confidence and combating misinformation

Discussion: TQV as a transferable framework

Although developed within the UK statistical system, TQV has broader relevance. The Code explicitly notes that the framework can be applied by any organisation producing or using data. This universality is one of its strengths. In an environment where data are produced across government, academia, media and private organisations, a common framework helps establish shared expectations of good practice. Internationally, TQV is consistent with the UN Fundamental Principles (UN General Assembly, 2014), and offers a practical and accessible articulation of how ethics can influence everyday statistical practice.

TQV provides a strong foundation for guarding against and standing up to misinformation using official statistics by integrating technical rigour (Quality) with ethical behaviour (Trustworthiness) and user-centred communication (Value). It is an essential regulatory tool and provides a critical steer for any analyst seeking to navigate the challenges of misuse and pre-empting misunderstandings.