HC Deb 17 May 1978 vol 950 cc178-9W
17. Mr. Rhodes James

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what arrangements he proposes to make to ensure that archives relating exclusively to Scotland and the history of Scotland are retained in Scotland; and whether he is satisfied with the present provisions.

Mr. Harry Ewing

Records of Government Departments and other public bodies, relating exclusively or mainly to Scotland, are dealt with under the Public Records Acts. Private archives are, of course, private property and, subject to the export regulations, may be disposed of as the owners wish. They do, however, form part of the national heritage and many private archives have been acquired by public collectors in Scotland by gift, deposit or purchase.