Which government department in the UK is responsible for collecting and publishing statistics?

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) is the government department in the UK that is tasked with collecting and publishing a wide array of statistics. This includes vital demographic data such as population figures, economic indicators, and information pertaining to the labor market. The ONS plays a crucial role in ensuring that the statistics are not only accurate but also relevant, providing data that policymakers, researchers, and the public can rely on for informed decision-making.

In the context of statistics, the other departments mentioned have specific roles but do not primarily focus on statistical collection and publication. The Department of Education, for instance, oversees education policy and institutions, while the Home Office handles immigration, security, and law enforcement issues. The Department of Health deals with public health and social care matters. Although these departments may utilize statistical data in their work and occasionally publish reports, the central function of data collection and dissemination is solely the responsibility of the ONS. This distinction underlines why the ONS is the correct answer to the question regarding which department is specifically responsible for handling statistics in the UK.