Strategic framework

The UK Statistics Authority (the Authority) has the statutory objective of promoting and safeguarding the production and publication of official statistics that serve the public good. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) is the executive office of the Authority.

In October 2025 the Authority Board agreed new priorities for the UK Statistical System drawing upon feedback and observations from colleagues across the statistical system as well as users and producers of official statistics and recent independent reviews. In a letter from Penny Young (dated 15 October 2025), Interim Chair of the UK Statistics Authority, the Board set out strategic values, priorities and ambitions for the work of the statistical system, formally superseding the 2020-2025 strategy.

All components of the statistical system (the ONS, the Office for Statistics Regulation [OSR] and the GSS) have their part to play in delivering these priorities, and the Board’s letter is supported by their respective strategies, visions and business plans, including this one.

The Board and its sub-committees, including the Audit and Risk Assurance Committee, will provide oversight, scrutiny and challenge on the delivery of this plan and will hear regular updates from the ONS. ONS reporting will be candid, highlighting where there may be challenges to delivery or additional support required.