The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has been rebuked by its watchdog for publishing growth data last month which "flattered" the national accounts.
Chairman of the UK Statistics Authority Sir Michael Scholar criticised the ONS for estimating "special events" including the royal wedding and warm weather knocked around half a percentage point off economic growth in the three months to June, reports the Telegraph. In a letter to ONS director Stephen Penneck, Scholar said its supplementary growth data left it open to accusations of political influence. He said media coverage of the ONS release treated its account as "being politically motivated and providing a series of excuses for the low-growth figures, in support of the coalition ...
To continue reading this article...
Join Professional Adviser for free
Signup and gain exclusive members-only insights
- Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
- Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
- Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
- Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
- Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
- Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes
