Written question asked by Norman Baker (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 17 November 1997, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 28 November 1997. It was answered by Geoffrey Hoon (Labour) on Friday, 28 November 1997 on behalf of the Lord Chancellor's Department.

Lord Chancellors Dept

Question: To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department, if he will review the papers held, relating to the abdication of Edward VIII, with a view to releasing them for public scrutiny.

Answer: Mr. Baker: To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department if he will review the papers held, relating to the abdication of Edward VIII, with a view to releasing them for public scrutiny. [16998] Mr. Hoon: Papers on the Abdication of King Edward VIII are at present closed until the year 2037. They may, however, be reviewed under the provisions of the 1993 White Paper, "Open Government", (Cm 2290), before that time. Many will continue to be personally sensitive for some time to come, but it is not ruled out that it may be possible to release them before 2037.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 16998; 301 c672W
Session: 1997-98
Subjects: Disclosure of information Public records Monarchy Royal family Edward VIII, King Abdication