The National Archives preserves iconic historical, academic and cultural documents dating back to over 1000 years old. It also acts as the official archive and publisher for England and Wales, and the UK Government. Its staff includes expert advisers in information and records management. Preserving significant documents and records is essential to safeguard British history, scholarship and culture for future generations to enjoy and learn from. Preserving government documents also helps to inform public debate and effectively hold politicians to account. The National Archives was established in 2003 by combining the Public Record Office and Royal Commission on Historical Manuscripts. The Public Records Act 1958 (PRA) requires departments to transfer public records selected for permanent reservation to the National Archives or another appointed place of deposit (though the National Archives are not explicitly referred to in the section). Its parent department is the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and it is staffed by civil servants.
