Roll of pink documentation tape.

Roll of pink document tape (?red tape?), continuously marked ?H

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Roll of pink document tape (?red tape?), continuously marked ?H
Science Museum Group
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Roll of pink document tape (‘red tape’), continuously marked ‘H. M. STATIONERY OFFICE’, by P. P. Payne & Sons Limited, Nottingham, England, 1950-1983.

This is a reel of official red tape as used in Science Museum offices. The expression ‘red tape’ has become a euphemism for excessive bureaucratic interference. Until the National Heritage Act 1983, the Science Museum was run as a part of the civil service. Office materials were supplied by HM Stationery Office, including the tape, actually pink, used for tying up bulky files of papers.

Details

Category:
Science Museum History
Object Number:
2022-3
Materials:
paper (fibre product)
type:
tape - material