Records merger go-ahead

A MERGER of public record bodies designed to streamline the services will take place on April 1, Culture Minister Fiona Hyslop has announced.

The National Records of Scotland will be the new organisation responsible for preserving national archives, registration and census material following the official merger of the General Register Office for Scotland and the National Archives of Scotland.

Ms Hyslop said: "At a time when it has never been more important to maximise the value of public spending in Scotland, the Scottish Government is determined to make our public services simpler, sharper, better co-ordinated and more responsive.

"The new body will build on the excellent work which is already being done, continuing to reach out to everyone interested in Scotland's demography, history and family history."