§ Mr. BurstowTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, pursuant to his answer of 20 July 1998,Official Report, columns 383–84, concerning the British Crime Survey, what timescale has been set for the feasibility study being undertaken by the Office for National Statistics. [52278]
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§ Mr. MichaelA feasibility study into a possible survey of communal establishments is being undertaken by the Social Survey Division of the Office for National Statistics (ONS). A cross-departmental steering group has been set up to address the structure and content of the survey. A final report of the findings from the consultation process will be presented by ONS to the steering group in autumn of this year. If the report is endorsed by the steering group, ONS will consult with departments about a possible funding partnership. At this point, the Home Office will consider whether the survey can viably cover victimisation and whether it justifies funding relative to other research priorities. If it is decided to proceed, the timing of the initial survey will then be agreed by the steering group and ONS.