§ Mr. John Mooreasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what statistical evidence is available to indicate whether voluntary surveys provide more or less adequate information basis for planning purposes than compulsory surveys; and, if such evidence is available, if he will publish it in the Official Report.
§ Mr. MoyleAs my right hon. Friend said in his reply to the hon. Member on 5th December 1977, experience in taking surveys shows that only 70 to 80 per cent. of persons respond to voluntary sample surveys. The compulsory nature and full coverage of a census is essential if reliable information is to be obtained for 713W small areas and minority groups.—[Vol. 940, c. 526–7.]