Minutes:
Naveed Mohammed, Scrutiny Officer, provided a verbal update on the current position regarding the Census, 2011. The Committee was reminded that Slough’s population as recorded at 2004 was 131,000; however the reliability of this information was somewhat questionable due to the failing of some residents to complete the census when requested. It was noted that there had been a steady rise in the number of new pupil registrations at schools, which suggested that many people were moving to Slough with the intention of settling, as opposed to the frequently referred to ‘transient communities’.
Members were advised that the Office for National Statistics (ONS) would not release the results of this year’s Cnsus, to any local authorities, until July 2012. However, it was noted that ONS might consider releasing additional data detailing the method of completion, for example, prior to this date. It was agreed that a further update would be provided to the Committee early next year, when the ONS would be invited to attend.
Resolved – That the report be noted and that the ONS be invited to a future meeting to discuss the outcome of the Census.