What issues have arisen with the UK’s official economic data?

Examining Issues in UK Official Statistics

Today, I want to discuss a topic I have been formally engaged with since 2012: the persistent challenges surrounding official statistics in the UK. These issues actually stem from decisions made in 2010, which were later obscured and misrepresented. Unfortunately, similar patterns have continued to emerge over the years.

Before delving further into this history, let me update you on a related matter—this time concerning labor market data, whereas previously the focus was on inflation. To borrow a phrase from Taylor Swift, there is certainly “trouble, trouble, trouble” brewing. The UK statistics authority has prepared backup plans that would postpone the introduction of its updated labor market survey by half a year, signaling potential complications ahead.