Intelligent transparency in statistics: compliance statement

The Code of Practice for Statistics includes requirements for producers of official statistics to comply with its standards for the public use of statistics, data and wider analysis. 

This page outlines how the Scottish Government implements the principles of intelligent transparency in its ongoing work. These are categorised into three standards: 

1. Equality of access 

2. Supporting understanding 

3. Decision making and leadership 

Equality of access 

All statements made by the Scottish Government that make use of statistics or wider analysis will refer to published statistics and provide links to the relevant publication. This includes news releases, policy documents, published speeches and other official documents. Links to published statistics will be included alongside social media posts where possible. 

Where figures are inadvertently quoted that are not public domain, the Scottish Government will publish the information as soon as practically possible, or else provide an explanation for why this is not possible. 

To support the independence of statistics, statistics will be published separately from any related policy or ministerial statements. 

Supporting understanding 

Policy statements, news releases and other publications will use the most appropriate evidence where appropriate. Statements will not ‘cherry pick’ figures, but will include any relevant context, caveats or uncertainty to help the public to properly understand and interpret them. 

Decision making and leadership 

Decisions about statistics are made impartially based on the professional judgement of statisticians with respect to methods, standards and procedures used in official statistics. The content, timing, frequency and mode of release of official statistics is also determined independently by statisticians. This is in line with the Code of Practice for Statistics. The Scottish Ministerial Code states that Ministers must be mindful of the Code of Practice for Statistics. 

Principles of intelligent transparency are included in the learning and development materials for analytical, policy and communications professions. Staff will receive support in best practice approaches to communicating statistics accurately and with proper context.  

Senior analysts will be consulted and provide oversight on the use of statistics in communications materials where possible, ensuring that figures are properly checked and contextualised.