It has been reported that a Canadian government advisory group is urging a return to the long-form census but recommends removing the threat of jail time for not completing it.

Postmedia News reported on Monday that the National Statistics Council, a 40-member panel of researchers and analysts from across Canada, urged a series of reforms and compromises among one the census be voluntary.

Ian McKinnon, the council chairman, said of the Conservative government's plans, "We believe that the changes will harm the integrity and quality of the Canadian statistical system. At the same time, the council recognizes that concerns about intrusiveness and confidentiality should be addressed."

The long form for the 2006 census ran 40 pages.

McKinnon wrote, "Debate over the future course of the census has become heated without moving toward a resolution that meets both concerns about privacy and intrusiveness, as well as the need to maintain the quality of Canada's statistical system."

The council further said that if the May 2011 census is to go ahead as planned, there are just a few weeks left to make changes to either the long-form census or the voluntary National Household Survey proposed to replace it.

The News also said that preparation for the 2016 census will begin as soon as the 2011 count is completed. (With Inputs from Agencies)