Publication Hub
The concept of a Publication Hub (a central distribution outlet for all National Statistics releases) does not feature in the Statistics and Registration Service Act but has become closely associated with the idea of statistical independence.
The idea was first suggested by a number of commentators during HM Treasury's public consultation on 'Independence for statistics' and has become a key component of subsequent proposals to reform statistical release practices.
The Hub will provide a clear demonstration of the separation between Statistical Releases and Ministerial Statements, addressing one of the concerns which came out of ONS's survey of Public Confidence in Official Statistics.
Latest position
The final shape of the Publication Hub has yet to be determined, but it is likely to incorporate the following:
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The Hub will be the central website for hosting all first releases of National Statistics and release through the Hub will normally be mandatory - although it will be up to Devolved Administrations to decide whether they make use of the Hub
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All Non-National Statistics releases will continue to be published via Departmental websites
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The Hub will mount an update and, in some cases, a statistical news release for all new National Statistics
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The Statistics Authority will develop guidance on the content of releases as part of the Code of Practice, although as now, the content of releases will remain the responsibility of Departments
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Heads of Profession will be responsible for the professional quality of outputs released through the Hub and will approve the publication of outputs through the Hub
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Underlying sources, datasets and those National Statistics already released before the Hub was developed will continue to be stored on Departmental websites
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The UK Statistics Authority will be responsible for future development and oversight of the Hub although it is expected to delegate day-to-day operation to the National Statistician
Next Steps
ONS will develop the Hub on behalf of the Statistics Authority and establish a new website for the Statistics Authority.
The current plan is to launch a central Publication Hub, currently in incremental stages, and to have a fully operational Publication Hub in place by April 2009.
