The National Archives’ Board summary
14 January 2016
Items to note
November Financials
The Board was asked to note the report.
The Lead Non-executive Board member requested that the most up to date financial reports be
tabled at future Board meetings.
The Board discussed and noted the report.
The National Archives’ Board – Terms of Reference
The Board was asked to approve the draft terms of reference for the Board and its two committees:
the Audit and Risk Committee and the Nominations and Governance Committee.
The Chief Operating Officer advised that Internal Control, Governance and Risk Management
formed the basis of the internal audit opinion at the end of each year and assurance was evidenced
through the internal audit schedule of work for the year.
Non-executive Board member said that it was normally the case that sub committees would report in
to the Board.
The Board approved the Terms of Reference subject to a number of minor changes being
made.
Digital and IT Strategies
The Board was asked to discuss the report by ‘Methods Digital’ and to consider issues around digital
transformation at The National Archives.
The Digital Director noted that the report had the diagnoses correct, the vision broadly right and the
recommendations focused on the correct areas.
The Chief Executive and Keeper said that the next steps would be to talk to the Senior Leadership
Team ahead of talking more widely to staff.
The Board discussed the report and plans for our digital future.
Shakespeare 400 anniversary programme
The Board was asked to note ambitious plans to commemorate the 400th anniversary of
Shakespeare’s death in 2016 with a high-impact public programme utilising a selection of the
documents we hold including Shakespeare’s Will.
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Plans were outlined to the Board.
The Chief Executive and Keeper stated that we have a unique opportunity to inspire new audiences,
to work with new partners, and to enhance our reputation within the cultural and heritage sector – this
was indeed the start of the beginning and we would journey forward with new ambitions and, if
necessary, bold decisions.
The Board noted progress and future plans.
Government audience – high-level strategic overview
The Board was asked to note the strategic priorities of the Information Policy and Services
directorate, its key achievements in the information management remit for 2015 and next steps for
2016.
Members of the directorate updated the Board on their work.
Any Other Business
There being no further business, the meeting was closed.
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