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The consultation on the government's proposals for a new policy on archives will soon close.

The consultation document, Archives for the 21st century, seeks to build the foundations for a sustainable future for archival services, responding to the challenges of the digital age and the opportunities it presents, to make archives accessible to a wider range of people.

Comments on the policy proposals are welcomed from anyone with an interest in archives, including local authorities, universities, individual information professionals, archival organisations and the general public.

On the launch of the consultation in May of this year, Michael Wills, Justice Minister with responsibility for The National Archives, said: 'Publicly funded archives have a vital role to play in society: they are the custodians of our collective memory, and an integral part of a healthy and robust democracy. It is crucial that archival services are able to embrace the digital revolution and start addressing the complex challenges this has created.'

The consultation is open until Wednesday 12 August. To take part, go to nationalarchives.gov.uk/archivesconsultation and complete the online questionnaire.