The Office for National Statistics (ONS) conducts a range of business surveys. The information provided by survey respondents is known as microdata, or unit record information, and are available to customers for statistical research and analysis purposes.
The majority of ONS's business surveys are collected under statute: the Statistics of Trade Act 1947 (STA). Data collected under the STA are subject to the disclosure provisions in that legislation. Access to data can therefore only be provided where those provisions are met. If you would like further information on the disclosure provisions, please download the Data Disclosure Provisions document.
ONS offers an on-site research access facility - the Virtual Microdata Laboratory (VML) - through which confidential, sensitive business data can be accessed within a secure environment. The VML can be accessed from all ONS sites.
Information about the different formats in which data can be obtained and details of how to apply for access can be found in each individual service's description. For further information or advice, please contact the individual service using the contact details provided or alternatively, refer to the Access to ONS data service.
If you need help or guidance about the best source of data to meet your research needs, or have a general query about business data, please email: info@ons.gsi.gov.uk.
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Annual Business Inquiry (ABI)
Overview of the ABI with statements on how the survey works and who it includes
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Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE)
Overview of the ASHE including the history and policy and the change in 2004 to encompass NES
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Virtual Microdata Laboratory (VML)
Explaining what it is and its uses within ONS
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Inter-Departmental Business Register (IDBR)
Overview of the importance and policy of the Inter-Departmental Business Register (IDBR) in relation to data collection. Includes registration with other departments and amount of businesses covered.
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Producer Prices Index (PPI)
Details about the history and both inputs and outputs. Includes descriptions of the relation between PPI and other services and government departments.
