§ Mr. Litherlandasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he is satisfied that the questions in the 1981 census will enable a clear and accurate picture of the number and types of one-parent families to be obtained and, to this end, what changes have been made from the 1971 census; and whether he will list the proposed questions for the 1981 census which will enable this information about one-parent families to be obtained.
§ Sir George YoungThe estimates of one-parent families will be based on the answers to questions on the relationship of persons living in private households to the head of household, their marital status, date of birth, and sex. Essentially the same questions will be asked in the 1981 Census as in 1971. But, although the questions will be the same, it is hoped to produce improved tabulations which will provide fuller information about the numbers and characteristics of one-parent families.