Field statisticians from the Barbados Statistical Service (BSS) are still visiting selected enumeration districts across Barbados, conducting interviews for its Household Budget Survey.

The survey, which had been conducted by the BSS in 10-year intervals since 1988, is a comprehensive sample of private households for the purpose of collecting data on their income and consumption expenditure.

It will be conducted over a 12-month period to allow statisticians to adequately gauge the spending patterns of householders.

A key objective of the inquiry is to obtain basic information for a revision of the Retail Price Index. This is required in order to determine the list of items to be included in a new basket of consumer goods and services. The inquiry also aims to revise the ???weights’, (relative value) of all items in the basket required for the computation of the index.?? Furthermore, it will assist with reviewing the outlets to be canvassed for the collection of price quotations on items to be included in the Index.

As part of the exercise, the respondents should keep a detailed diary of their expenses, over a two-week period.??

At the end of the investigation, the data collected would provide an independent source of information to estimate and improve the figures on private, final consumption expenditure.?? This is needed for a more comprehensive estimation of the Gross Domestic Product and other national accounting aggregates.

The BSS will collect information from a different sample for each quarter with four samples collected within the same geographic location to be randomly selected by the department.

Further information on the sample may be obtained by calling the BSS at telephone number 427-6009, or by email at barstats@caribsurf.com, or by viewing the website www.barstats.gov.bb.

jwilson@barbados.gov.bb??

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