UK Statistics Authority

How the UK statistics system works

The UK Statistics Authority is an independent statutory body, established in 2008 to safeguard the production and publication of official statistics that serve the public good. The Authority is responsible for the running of the Office for National Statistics and the Office for Statistics Regulation, as well as supervising official statistics produced by other public bodies.

Office for National Statistics

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) is the largest producer of official statistics in the UK.

Office for Statistics Regulation

The Office for Statistics Regulation (OSR) is responsible for regulating official statistics. 

Government Statistical Service

The cross-government community of all those involved in the production of official statistics in the UK.

Oversight in practice

Highlighted publications

Meeting minutes

Recent correspondence

Applications open for Chair of the UK Statistics Authority

28 October 2026

Appointments and vacancies

Applications are now open for the role of Chair of the UK Statistics Authority. The Authority is an independent statutory body and a non-ministerial department that operates independently from government. The Authority reports directly to the parliaments of the UK, Scotland and Wales and the Northern Ireland Assembly. The Chair provides leadership to the UK…