Census 1981--Question on Racial and Ethnic Origin. Briefing Paper.

The British Office of Population Censuses and Surveys (OPCS) is considering the inclusion of a question on race and ethnic origin in the 1981 census of Great Britain. This paper addresses the importance of obtaining statistical data on minority groups and examines some of the arguments and problems likely to be raised over the issue of including such a question in the census. Data showing discrimination in employment and housing in Britain are reviewed, and the inadequacy of available information for forming and implementing anti-discrimination policy is cited. Objections raised by politicians in opposition to the census question on race/ethnicity are reviewed and contested. It is pointed out that the alternatives suggested by the OPCS will not provide useful information. Some features of ethnicity, descent, and religion which might influence the wording of a census question are discussed. Policies of other countries in regard to census data on race, language, religion, and country of birth are briefly considered. A number of suggestions are offered on how questions which are simultaneously useful and non-discriminatory could be developed. A discussion of the use of the word "race" is appended to the paper. (GC)