CENSUS IN BRITAIN.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVII, Issue 20725, 19 November 1930, Page 11

CENSUS IN BRITAIN.

COUNTING THE NATION.

DATE FIXED FOR APRIL

(Received November 18, 5.5 p.m.)

LONDON, Nov. 17. The next census in Britain is to bo taken on Sunday, April 26, 1931.

Commenting recently on the next census tho Daily Express said: It is possible that when the householder next year studies his census form he will find there are somo additional questions ho will be required to answer. It is understood that the long-standing practice of filling in tho forms on a Sunday will be maintained. It is thought that despite modern weekending and motoring habits which take many from their homes, Sunday is still the best day on which to find the majority at home. Moro than 40,000 additional workers will bo employed. What will bo tho tally?

Tn 1921 llio population of England and Wales totalled 37,887,000. An idea, of how the population has increased is gained from tlie Registrar-General's estimate, made in the middle of 1928, Hie last yearly estimate available. That estimato was 39,482,000. It would, therefore, appear probable that the peoplo next year will number more than 40,000,000. The census last time necessitated area divisions numbering 36,000, with an enumerator appointed over each area. The rise in population will demand that these areas shall be increased next year. Costs, accordingly, will increase. The last census cost the country £430,000. The usual census form contains 13 columns under the headings of which entries have to bo made, in addition to 15 other columns in which crosses have to be made according to the ages of children under 36 years of age. There is now a proposal to include other columns with respect to housing questions, which will make the form a formidable document.