The National Archives reports to the Lord Chancellor. On policy matters concerning The National Archives and public and other records the Lord Chancellor relies on advice from the chief executive of The National Archives, and from officials in the Ministry of Justice. For independent advice on questions relating to access to public records he refers to the Advisory Council on National Records and Archives.
The Advisory Council's role
The Council advises the Lord Chancellor on public access to records and the care of archives and manuscripts, including the allocation of historical papers accepted against tax. It has no role in the running of The National Archives.
One of the Council's main tasks is to advise on public access for historical records at the point of transfer to The National Archives, and to advise on requests by government departments to keep their records. The council also advises the Lord Chancellor on the public interest when departments want to keep historical records closed under certain exemptions
Further information on the Advisory Council's role and functions (PDF, 0.08Mb)
Advisory Council reports
The Advisory Council reports to the Lord Chancellor every year. This is published with the annual report of The National Archives.
Read the Advisory Council report 2008-09 (PDF, 0.10Mb)
Read the Advisory Council report 2007-08 (PDF, 0.05Mb)
Read the Advisory Council report 2006-07 (PDF, 0.05Mb)
Read the Advisory Council report 2005-06 (PDF, 0.05Mb)
Contact details
If you have any questions about the Advisory Council or would like to make a Freedom of Information request, please contact:
Ms Lale Ozdemir
Advisory Council on National Records and Archives
The National Archives
Kew, Richmond
Surrey TW9 4DU
Tel: +44 (0) 20 8392 5377
Email: Advisory Council Secretary
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