Fake News: Time To Take Back Control, by John Pullinger

We are producing better and better statistics, capturing the complex reality of the world around us. But is the message getting across? Do people value statistics? Do they believe them? Improving statistical communication between those creating and using statistics is ever more important.

Part of the Dean's Lecture Series

The Dean’s Lecture Series features invited speakers who are regarded as leaders in the areas of management, economics, finance and business. Hosted by the Dean, Professor Zoe Radnor (School of Business, University of Leicester) the lectures take place three times each year and are open to students, staff, alumni and the public. The theme of each lecture is chosen for its topicality and relevance to the understanding of contemporary economics and management, with each speaker being an influential leader in their field. Each lecture features an expert respondent from the academic team, an opportunity for questions from the audience and further discussion at the post-lecture reception.

John Pullinger

John PullingerJohn Pullinger started as the National Statistician, Head of the Government Statistical Service (GSS) and Chief Executive of the UK Statistics Authority on 1 July 2014. He was previously Chair, and is currently Vice-Chair, of the United Nations Statistical Commission (UNSC). In this capacity he has been greatly involved in the development of measures for the Sustainable Development Goals.

John's career began in 1980 when he joined the civil service after graduating in geography and statistics from Exeter University. After several statistical roles in different departments, John joined the Central Statistical Office as a senior civil servant in 1992. He was the project manager for the creation of the Office for National Statistics and was the policy lead on the development of the GSS. He has worked on diverse projects and topics, including responsibility for flagship publications like 'Social Trends', leading the neighbourhood statistics programme as well as being actively involved in the creation of the Statistics Commission and National Statistics in 2000.

In 2004 John became the 14th librarian to the House of Commons. He continued to be involved in the statistical community and took up the presidency of the Royal Statistical Society on 1 January 2013.

John is married with three adult children and three grandchildren. He is active in his local community in Tunbridge Wells and has been the chairman of Great Culverden Park Limited since 1999.