Play it straight, urges the President of the Royal Statistical Society in a letter to party leaders in advance of the election.

“The RSS encourages candidates of all parties, and none, to use statistics in presenting and making their case to the electorate” writes Professor David Hand. “However, the Society stresses that such use must not be at the expense of statistical integrity – all use must be appropriate and accurate.
 
“We hope that all party leaders will endorse this approach ... we ask you to redouble your efforts in ensuring this throughout and beyond your election campaign. The Royal Statistical Society stands ready to offer advice where appropriate and to assist the debate on trust in official statistics.”
 
His letter was sent in advance of a meeting on Monday at Westminster Central Hall (note change of venue from previous notifications) at which representatives of the three major parties will present their views on how to improve trust in official statistics.