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Glasgow Live
Glasgow Live
National
Alexander Smail

Scotland Census deadline today as criminal record and fine warning issued

Tuesday marks the final deadline for Scots to complete the 2022 census, and those who fail to do so have been warned they may face a fine or even a criminal record.

The deadline for the mandatory census, which is carried out every 10 years, was originally May 1 — but was pushed back to May 31 following low uptake.

Scotland's Census is the official count of every person and household in the country, and collects information about where you stay and the people who stay there.

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The information provided is used by the Scottish Government and public bodies when implementing important public services such as doctors' surgeries and schools.

Cabinet Secretary for the Constitution, External Affairs and Culture Angus Robertson has urged those who have not yet completed their form to do so immediately to avoid "prosecution".

He stated: “In addition to being a civic responsibility, completion of the census is also a legal responsibility.

"Failure to meet this responsibility can result in prosecution. However, the shared focus is, and must be, on ensuring that people are supported and encouraged to complete the census.

“It is vital that we secure as high a response rate as possible so that the census can be effective in delivering its many benefits for future public services."

He added: "For those who have already completed their census, thank you. For those still to do so, I would urge you to act now.”

Failing to return your census form by today may result in prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000.

As well as failing to complete the form, you may also be prosecuted if you neglect to answer a non-voluntary question, provide a false answer to a question, or sign a false document.

Taking to Twitter, the official Scotland's Census 2022 account wrote: "Today is the last day to return your #ScotlandsCensus2022.

"Clock's ticking, visit http://census.gov.scot now so together we can shape Scotland's future. Our helpline is also still open until 8pm."

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