Planning the 2001 census: only four years to go

The first key stage in the build-up to the 2001 Census was reached with the 1997 Census Test on 15 June. As 2001 approaches, Population Trends will carry articles describing the detailed work and analyses that underpin preparations and decisions affecting the Census. In this inaugural article Graham Jones, Director of Census, ONS, explains the principles and issues which underpin the planning process, and the work in hand. A second article, from Dr David Martin, on the geographical information system planned for use in the 1997 Census Test appears later in this issue.