James Duddridge, Member of Parliament for Rochford and Southend East, met with Nick Hurd MP, Minister for Civil Society at Whitehall to discuss the Census in Southend.
Also in attendance were officials from the Office of National Statistics and Mr Robert Tinlin, Chief Executive of Southend Borough Council.
The 2001 Census cost Southend £8.5 million in allocated funding due to the population being undercounted by approximately 16,000 residents.
James Duddridge and David Amess, Member of Parliament for Southend West, have been working tirelessly with Southend Council to ensure that the 2011 census is not a repeat of 2001. Both MP’s have raised the Census in Parliament and also with Ministers on a number of occasions to ensure that we get it right.
James said
“I am thankful for the Minister for arranging the meeting today. March 27th is fast approaching but we must ensure that we continue to keep momentum going and keep the importance of this census in the forefront of resident’s minds.”
“I will continue to do all I can to ensure that Southend does not suffer financially as a result of the Census. I am aware that Councillors and council officials are working relentlessly with the Office of National Statistics to engage with residents and ensure that everyone completes their form.”
Nick Hurd said
“The Government is fully committed to the 2011 Census. It must accurately count the population in all parts of the country, including Southend. I met today with James Duddridge MP, Southend Council and the Director of the Census to ensure that everyone takes part in Southend. I have been assured that the Council will continue to work very closely with those who are running the Census to ensure a successful take up, but I would also like to encourage residents to participate”