British Government Publications can appear daunting and confusing, especially if you are using them for the first time. The actual 'structure' of Government Publications is quite logical. Obtaining a basic understanding of the structure and arrangement of British Government Publications can make a substantial difference in your research, enabling you to effectively locate and use this type of material.

There are two distinct categories of British Government Publications:

  • Parliamentary Papers - papers which are needed by Parliament or which result directly from the proceedings of Parliament.
  • Non-Parliamentary Papers - documents which are produced by individual Government departments.