Petition · Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government
Change the Census Act to mandate a census every 5 years
Open for signatures
55 signatures
What the petition asks
Censuses have been held every 10 years since 1801, with the Census Act (1920) allowing governments to hold a census every 5 years, but placing no obligation to ever hold a census. The Act should be amended to place an obligation on the UK and devolved governments to hold a full census every 5 years.
We think the current practice and law is outdated. Since 1801 technological advancements have allowed data to be collected and analysed quickly with relatively minimal human intervention.
At the same time as these advancements, the pace of change in the country's demographics have accelerated, with immigration currently at record levels.
We believe it is therefore vital that we use the technology at our disposal to ensure we have the most up to date data regarding the demographic make up of our country.
At the same time as these advancements, the pace of change in the country's demographics have accelerated, with immigration currently at record levels.
We believe it is therefore vital that we use the technology at our disposal to ensure we have the most up to date data regarding the demographic make up of our country.
Timeline
| 9 Feb 2026 | Petition opened for signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
55
Status
Open for signatures
Department
Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government
Opened
9 Feb 2026
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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 26 Jul 2026.