This snapshot, taken on
11/10/2010
, shows web content acquired for preservation by The National Archives. External links, forms and search may not work in archived websites and contact details are likely to be out of date.
 
 
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Q. How can I obtain official publications?

A. Official Publications can be obtained either from the department concerned or from their official publisher. For further guidance see Finding and obtaining official publications.

Q. What is the difference between HMSO and The Stationery Office Ltd (TSO)?

A. HMSO operates within The National Archives and is responsible for the administration of Crown copyright and the regulation of the contracts covering the printing and publication of legislation and other official materials.

The Stationery Office Ltd (TSO) is a contractor for some of our publishing contracts awarded in open and fair competition.

Q. Where can I find old HMSO publications?

A. Some HMSO publications are still available from The Stationery Office Ltd.  Please visit their online bookshop at www.tsoshop.co.uk.  Alternatively, the government department responsible for the publication may be able to provide a copy of the document.  You can find contact details for government departments on the Direct Gov website.  

If the document is out of print, you may be able to view a copy at a major public library, such as the Social Science reading rooms at the British Library.  Please visit the British Library website for more details, or email social-sciences@bl.uk, or phone +44 (0)20 7412 7676.

You might also try the House of Commons Records Office. Their email is archives@parliament.uk, or phone +44 (0)20 7219 5315.

Q. How do I obtain a Command Paper number?

A. Contact the Legislation and Publishing Services team by emailing Official.Publishing@nationalarchives.gsi.gov.uk, or calling +44 (0)20 3334 2799.

Q. How do I obtain a Departmental Circular?

A. You need to contact the relevant department or its successor to obtain copies of Departmental Circulars. Please try the online earch facility at Directgov in the first instance.