Classified information in the United Kingdom

Classified information in the United Kingdom, previously called Protectively Marked Information, is a system used to protect information from intentional or inadvertent release to unauthorised readers. The system is organised by the Cabinet Office and is implemented throughout central and local government and the critical national infrastructure. The system is also used by private sector bodies which provide services to the public sector.

In 2014, a new classification system, the Government Security Classifications Policy, replaced the old Government Protective Marking Scheme.

Policy

Policy is set by the Cabinet Office. The classification system was formerly included in the Manual of Protective Security (MPS) which specified the impact of release and protection level required for each classification. Departments issued localised versions of the content of the MPS as appropriate to their operational needs. The Security Policy Framework (SPF) now supersedes the Manual of Protective Security and contains the primary internal protective security policy and guidance on security and risk management for HM Government Departments and associated bodies. It is the source on which all localised security policies are based.