asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce the progress which has been made on the preparation of documents to be deposited in the National Archives; the portion of the relevant material which has now been examined and could now be placed there; the number of staff engaged on this work; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - National Archives.
115.
Preliminary evaluation of departmental records has been undertaken but, at present, the greater proportion of files remains to be examined. It is anticipated that further progress will be made in the future bearing in mind the overall demands placed on the resources of the Department. My Department has also, on a number of occasions, allowed access to files to persons undertaking research work.
116.
asked the Minister for Communications the progress which has been made on the preparation of documents to be deposited in the National Archives; the portion of the relevant material which has now been examined and could now be placed there; the number of staff engaged on this work; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
No records have recently been prepared for deposit with the National Archives as the National Archives Act, 1986, is not yet fully in force. My Department is fully aware of the importance of maintaining records of interest to the Public Record Office and the State Paper Office and will continue to co-operate with both bodies in their activities.