The merger was announced today in a statement made jointly by Hilary Armstrong MP, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, in the Commons and Baroness Ashton of Upholland, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Department for Constitutional Affairs, in the Lords.  They each said:

“I am announcing to the House that, as a result of joint work between the Department of Constitutional Affairs and the Cabinet Office, The National Archives and the Office of Public Sector Information will merge, under the joint name of The National Archives . The combined organisation will lead on information policy and support effective delivery of records and information management across government and the wider public sector.  This merger will take effect in October 2006.”

Natalie Ceeney, Chief Executive of The National Archives, said:

“Bringing our two organisations together, and combining our specialist skills and services, creates a stronger organisation and presents exciting future opportunities.  The National Archives can now help shape the future of information, as well as use it to illustrate the past. This is essential to help realise the true value of information, as well as to capture the records of today for tomorrow's researchers".

Carol Tullo, Director of OPSI, said:

”Our shared vision is to combine the complementary strands of our portfolio of information responsibilities and from a position of strength deliver greater value and service to our users.  The new organisation will create a centre of gravity for information management in the public sector.  I relish the opportunities that lie ahead.”

OPSI and HMSO will continue to deliver their services as part of The National Archives.  The National Archives will continue to operate as a government department and as an executive agency of the Secretary of State for Constitutional Affairs.