Can anyone tell me when records began in the UK, and why is the mums maiden name

Question:

Can anyone tell me when records began in the UK, and why is the mums maiden name on some birth indexes.?

and not others I really need to know I want to impress somebody., help!!!!!!

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: Hello, have to say it Kirsty M is right. Civil registration actually began on 1st July 1837. The census began on, Sunday 6th June 1841. and as you no doubt already know they are done on a ten yearly basis always in the first year of that decade. The inclusion of the mums maiden name on the birth certificate began in September 1911 ( believe this began on the 9th, but don't quote me on that one). Hope this helps. Diane