§ Dr. David ClarkTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to his answer of 26 March,Official Report, column 759, what criteria are used when considering whether or not to destroy documents; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. AitkenMy Department's records are reviewed in accordance with the terms of the Public Records Acts 1958 and 1967. No file of administrative or possible historical value is destroyed before five years after closure. Files are reviewed for permanent preservation after 25 years.