UK Statistics Authority will run the rule over 鈥渁ll relevant matters鈥� relating to construction statistics

The UK鈥檚 independent statistics watchdog has said it will launch an inquiry into the mistaken publication of incorrect construction growth data by the ONS.

The UK Statistics Authority said the probe will investigate the 鈥渁rithmetical error鈥� that led the ONS to overstate five-fold the sector鈥檚 second quarter output last Friday.

The ONS initially published a figure of 2.3% growth, which was later revised down to 0.5% just seven hours later.

In a letter to the ONS, seen by Dow Jones, Statistics Authority chief Sir Michael Scholar said the mistake was of 鈥済reat concern鈥�.

Scholar added the Authority would also look more widely at 鈥渁ll relevant matters鈥� relating to construction statistics and would publish its report.

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