Office for National Statistics (ONS)

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) is the UK's largest independent producer of official statistics. It is responsible for collecting, analyzing, and disseminating a wide range of data related to the UK's economy, population, and society. The ONS plays a crucial role in informing public policy, research, and decision-making across various sectors. Recent news highlights the ONS's role in providing key economic and social data. Specifically, the ONS reported an unexpected fall in retail sales in November, higher-than-expected government borrowing, and a contraction in the UK economy in October. Furthermore, the ONS released data showing a significantly higher risk of death by suicide, drug overdose, and alcohol-related disease among LGB+ individuals compared to their straight counterparts. These reports underscore the ONS's ongoing importance in monitoring economic trends, assessing social inequalities, and providing vital insights into the state of the UK.