BUSINESSES are being asked to help with the 2001 census by making sure staff know the full address and postcode of their workplace.

Postcode information gathered for the count - which takes place on Sunday - is used to show where people live in relation to their workplace and to highlight the distance people travel to and from work.

The information enables the Government and local authorities to plan roads, public transport and business development. David Hands, of the Federation of Small Businesses, said: "The future smooth running and profitability of UK business depends on the careful planning of infrastructure. Over the next decade, the census data will play a vital role in this process." He added: "Though the census is completed by individuals, it is an important event for businesses. They are the ones who will ultimately benefit from the information that is gathered.

"Firms can help by reminding staff of their workplace postcode in the next few weeks, either by displaying it in the building, via e-mail, or by distributing business cards and stationery."

Companies should have already received information from the Office for National Statistics, which carries out the census in England and Wales, as part of its 'Count Me In' campaign. Its website is www.statistics.gov.uk

Correct postcodes can be found by visiting the Royal Mail website at www.royalmail.com or by calling the postcode inquiry helpline on 08457 111 222.

For the first time in the 200-year history of the census, the public will return the 27 million forms by using the Freepost service handled by the Royal Mail.