Appraisal and access: we should expect changes driven by the media and by public awareness

A statement of personal opinion on some of the effects of media discussion of issues with a records component. Appraisal of records for retention and the access to be given to users of these are singled out. Effects of electronic records management are included. Accountability is seen as the main principle in the appraisal of public records, but is extended to the private sector in such matters as environmental protection. Access is affected by the opening of the hitherto secret records of Eastern Europe, but also by new legal provision for data protection and freedom of information. Principles for further development of professional action in records and archives management are suggested.