HC Deb 14 October 1952 vol 505 cc2-3W
15. Mr. Nabarro

asked the President of the Board of Trade what simplification and curtailment is now proposed in connection with future Census of Production and distribution forms sent by his Department to manufacturing, commercial and trading firms; and what general reduction will be achieved in questions asked.

Mr. H. Strauss

In the Census of Production for 1952, to be taken in 1953, the adoption of sampling methods will relieve a large proportion of the smaller and medium-sized establishments of the need to make returns. Moreover, fewer questions will be asked than in any previous census. The Census of Production for 1953, to be taken in 1954, will be on similar lines.

There is no intention of taking a second Census of Distribution in the near future.