Mark Dunton joined The National Archives (formerly Public Record Office) in 1983 and has in-depth knowledge and experience of researching public records, specialising in post-1945 Britain.
Mark has given many public talks, many of which are available to download as podcasts from The National Archives website, and has been a regular media spokesperson for The National Archives on the annual releases of government files since 2006. Mark has a BA in History from Exeter University, an MA in Archives and Records Management from University College London and an MA in War Studies from King's College London. His research interests include post-1945 British political, social and economic history and the policies of the Heath government in the early 1970s.
When the Post Office Tower was officially opened on 8 October 1965 by Prime Minister Harold Wilson, it was Britain’s tallest building. It was also seen as a symbolising a new, exciting technological revolution and a new spirit of optimism, …
Today's release of Prime Minister’s Office records and Cabinet Papers from 1985-1986 covers the mid-point of the Thatcher premiership. If this period is beyond your living memory, you might be tempted to think that the files would reflect the Thatcher revolution …
Speaking personally, I love it when BBC Parliament re-shows general election television coverage in order to mark general election anniversaries, and I know I'm not alone with my enthusiasm. You see the story of the election unfold, 'in real time' …
...then I'll begin. Could a government document ever have been a potential contender for the ‘Jackanory’ treatment? Let me explain. Today, 3 January, as part of the transition to a 20-year rule, The National Archives is releasing Prime Minister’s Office …
If I told you that records of 30 years ago have just been released, would you immediately think that records such as ‘Karma Chameleon’ (Culture Club), ‘Every breath you take’ (The Police) and ‘Down under’ (Men at work’) had been …
Are you a scribbler? Do you regularly commit your thoughts by putting pen to paper? Or does that sound a ridiculously old fashioned notion in this age of social media? On the other hand, perhaps you keep a handwritten diary, …