The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has produced a set of historical estimates covering the period 1971-91, which are fully consistent with post-1992 Labour Force Survey (LFS) data. The data cover headline measures of employment, unemployment, economic inactivity and hours worked.
Headline UK labour market figures for employment and unemployment are taken from the LFS. The definitions used in the LFS are based on internationally agreed standards set by the International Labour Organisation. These definitions are designed to ensure international comparability of data.
However, LFS data are generally only available back to 1979. In addition, there have been a number of definitional changes over the years since the LFS was introduced. As a result, fully consistent survey data are only available back to 1992. This is insufficient for many users who need longer time series for modelling, and it makes comparisons over time difficult.
To address this, ONS launched a project to produce longer time series of data. Initial modelled estimates were published on an experimental basis in 2003. Following further user consultation and quality assurance, these estimates have now been made National Statistics. As such, they represent ONS's best estimate of the headline labour market series over this period.
A description of the data sources and estimation methods is available.
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Labour Force Survey