§ Rev. Martin SmythTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what information he has as to whether the inclusion of more questions in the census than previously has reduced the numbers responding.
§ Mr. NeedhamNone. The census is compulsory by law, and everyone is obliged to respond to it. However, the census is based on the principle that it should be generally acceptable to the public, and limited in its overall demands.
§ Rev. Martin SmythTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what percentage of respondents to the census of 1961, 1971 and 1981 did not answer the question concerning religion; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. NeedhamThe information is as follows:
Percentage 1961 1.9 1971 9.4 1981 18.5 A question on religion has traditionally been included in Northern Ireland censuses for answer on a voluntary basis. The Government propose to retain a religion question on the same basis in the 1991 census.
§ Rev. Martin SmythTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what purpose is intended in including in the census questions on educational qualifications; and what use will be made of the answers to these questions.
§ Mr. NeedhamThe information derived from these questions will be used, together with information from other questions, to show the number of people with higher qualifications in different industries and occupations. Regional variations in the proportions of people with higher qualifications will be used in planning education and training. It will also show the reserves of qualified people among, for example, housewives and the out of work, including those not currently seeking work.