Census Question - What is your main language?

Interesting to see that the recent census collected information on proficiency in language for the first time. If you stated that your main language is not English, you then had to rate your ability in English. To the question "How well can you speak English?" you could rate your level 'Very well', 'well', 'not well' or 'not at all'. The Office for National Statistics says the data will help them "identify the number of people who might need additional help when accessing or using public services." We look forward to seeing the results. We should note though that rating your proficiency in another language is very subjective. People have a tendency to be modest about their level sometimes saying they can't speak English when in fact they can. This can be because they think their English is basic and don't want someone speaking to them as if they are fluent.