The form of the document
OPC is sometimes asked how to format instructions and there is still
some outdated guidance about this around Whitehall. Here are some hints
and tips about what most drafters find helpful-
- For reference purposes it is helpful if both the pages and
paragraphs of any instructions sent to OPC are all numbered or
lettered. Numbered and lettered paragraphs are easier to refer to than
unnumbered or bulleted paragraphs.
-
If the document is lengthy, headings and a table of contents are also helpful.
-
Instructions are easier to read if they are typed in 1.5 or double
spacing, in a legible 12 point font and with margins wide enough to
facilitate the noting of comments and questions.
-
Wherever possible, instructions should be delivered in electronic form
by email with electronic copies of the accompanying documents, or web
links to them. An electronic copy of the instructions facilitates the
creation of an electronic archive for the Bill in OPC, which can prove
invaluable at later stages.
-
It is not necessary to send hard copies of instructions delivered by
email. But it is still helpful to send a copy for each member of the
drafting team of any document that cannot be provided either
electronically or by way of a web link.
-
Instructing departments who send instructions only by email should take
responsibility for ensuring that emailed instructions have arrived in
OPC and follow up any failure by OPC to respond promptly to the receipt
of instructions.
If the department are already in touch with the allocated drafter, the
first set of instructions may be sent directly to that drafter. In
other cases instructions should be addressed to 1st PC.
