Quinquennial Review of the Historical Manuscripts Commission: Stage One

We are currently undertaking a review of the HMC as part of DCMS's programme of quinquennial reviews of its non-departmental public bodies (NDPBs). The review is being lead by an independent lead reviewer, Sir Geoffrey Chipperfield.

This consultation is closed

We are required to review our NDPBs every five years. We commissioned a Stage One (prior options) review of HMC in 1996 but publication of that report was suspended in 1997 following the General Election and then pending the outcome of our Comprehensive Spending Review. Significant changes have since taken place, including the development of the Department's objectives and the establishment of Resource: the Council for Museums, Archives and Libraries. This means that a new review needs to be undertaken.

This review will examine the continuing need for the services delivered by HMC, whether these services are best delivered by an NDPB, and the efficiency and effectiveness of the way in which HMC's service delivery. The review will be comprehensive, wide-ranging and vigorous.

Stage One of the review (formerly known as the prior options stage) focuses on getting the organisation right and will recommend what organisational option will be best suited to delivering responsive, efficient and quality services in future. The options are: abolition; status quo; market testing; merger or rationalisation; privatisation; and strategic contracting out.

If no change is recommended to HMC's status then Stage Two will focus on the scope for future improvements in efficient, effective and responsive service delivery. You are invited to respond to the attached consultation paper.

Quinquennial Review of the Historical Manuscripts Consultation Paper (PDF 13kb)
Consultation Background Information (PDF 27kb)

These documents are available online in Adobe Acrobat (.pdf) format.

Back to main