UFOs - Policy (File D/DAS/64/1 Part F)

This file documents the Ministry of Defence's (MoD) policy and administrative process regarding the proactive release of its UFO-related files to The National Archives (TNA). The file spans several years, documenting the transition from responding to individual Freedom of Information (FOI) requests to a structured, rolling release programme. The MoD's stated position, consistently maintained throughout the correspondence, is that it has no interest in extraterrestrial life and only investigates UFO sightings to determine if UK airspace has been compromised by hostile or unauthorized military activity. The file contains numerous internal memos, emails, and draft press releases detailing the logistical challenges of this release, including the need for redaction of personal data under the Data Protection Act and the Freedom of Information Act. The MoD faced significant public and media interest, often fueled by speculation about 'X-Files' and government cover-ups. The decision to transfer files to TNA was driven by the need to manage this interest efficiently, reduce the cost and time spent on FOI requests, and demonstrate transparency. The file also includes discussions on the handling of specific incidents, such as the Rendlesham Forest incident, and the management of 'persistent correspondents' who frequently submitted FOI requests. The process involved coordination between the Directorate of Air Staff (DAS) and the Defence Intelligence Staff (DIS). The file highlights the MoD's efforts to maintain a 'defensive' press stance, emphasizing that the release of these files does not imply a deeper interest in UFO phenomena. The file also documents the technical and administrative hurdles, such as the discovery of asbestos in the Old War Office archive, which delayed access to some files, and the use of redaction software to prepare documents for public release. The correspondence reflects a department attempting to balance its statutory obligations under the FOI Act with its desire to minimize the resources dedicated to a subject it considers to be of no defence interest.