People in Edinburgh and the Lothians have only a few days left to fill in their census questionnaire online, in English or Gaelic.
With more than two million completed census questionnaires already returned, census takers are now visiting households that have yet to respond. Those with questionnaires that have internet access codes have until Wednesday April 20th to use them. After that date, people must return a paper questionnaire to avoid the risk of a fine up to £1,000.
Online census questionnaires have been returned 24 hours a day since the online questionnaire opened on 7 March.
The man responsible for Scotland’s Census, Registrar General Duncan Macniven said:
“The online system is quick and easy to use and people in Edinburgh and the Lothians who are finishing off their census this week have until Wednesday if they want to return it online. This is the first time householders have had the option to fill in their census in online and it is a world away from the first of the 10-yearly censuses, which started with parish schoolmasters taking down people’s details in 1801.
“Census takers are already visiting anyone who has yet to send back their questionnaires to offer help and make sure everyone is counted. Anyone who refuses to take part may then be visited by a member of the census non-compliance team which will work across Scotland, because completing and returning the questionnaire is required by law. Anyone failing to do so could face a fine of up to £1,000.
“We will continue to accept paper questionnaires after 20 April and we’re grateful to everyone across Edinburgh and the Lothians who has already taken the time to help shape Scotland’s future by completing their questionnaire.”
To fill in the online questionnaire (in English or Gaelic) or for help and support visit: www.scotlandscensus.gov.uk
