Census 2011 bus comes to Cornwall

The 2011 Census is the biggest ever carried out in the country

The 2011 Census is getting under way with forms arriving on doorsteps throughout Cornwall but for the first time people will also be able to fill in the form online.

A special Census advice bus will be on Lemon Quay in Truro on Saturday to deal with questions about the compulsory form.

The census - the biggest ever carried out in this country - provides an estimate of the population of England and Wales and is carried out every 10 years by the Office for National Statistics.

The Census, which is used to provide information about people living in the UK and help plan public services, takes place every 10 years and is compulsory.

Census Area Manager, David Bailey, said: "People can come along and have a chat with me and other members of the census team on board the bus to ask any questions they may have about the upcoming census."

The bus tour which will be in Lemon Quay between 1000 and 1600 GMT is also being supported by Cornwall Council.

£1,000 fine

Alec Robertson, Leader of Cornwall Council, said: "Results are used to plan local services like schools, hospitals and transport.

"People are asked questions about their jobs, health, education and ethnic background."

One of Cornwall's MPs is urging people in the county to describe their nationality as Cornish in the 2011 Census.

Stephen Gilbert, the Lib Dem MP for Newquay and St Austell, said there were a number of Census questions in which people could describe themselves as Cornish.

The organisers of the survey say the information provided on questionnaire must relate to 27 March.

There is a fine of up to £1,000 for failing to complete and return the form.