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On 15 December 2023, the UK government published a consultation paper on the ‘Storage and retention of original will documents’. The paper can be accessed online here. The government also issued a press release and published a posts on social media.
Genealogists, Local Historians, One-Namers (and others working on Surname studies), One-Placers (and those working on location based projects) and other historians, are, according to those I have engaged with, outraged; as am I.
Digitisation of wills and other documents is of course very welcome for those of us wishing to access material in this digital world. In my opinion, the Government seems to take the view, that destruction is acceptable after the period of 25 years, and that digitisation is preservation. I believe this consultation paper is focused on saving money and is incredibly short sighted.
Digitisation is NOT preservation. These documents are a valuable resource and we must ensure the UK government hears our outcry and engages appropriately. The National Archives is the appropriate place to receive these documents
I urge everyone to undertake this CALL FOR ACTION:
- Download and read the Consultation paper which can be found HERE
- Reading Dave Annal’s significant post which can be read HERE
- Sign Richard Holt’s petition which can be read and signed HERE
- Submit your response to the consultation questions.
The consultation closes at
I have written my personal response to the consultation. The Guild of One-Name Studies will be formally submitting their response as soon as it is agreed by the Trustees.
Julie Goucher ~ Anglers Rest 