Secret files revealed online

Formerly secret government files drawn up between the 1940s and the 1980s have been made available online by The National Archives.

One document compiled by the British Railways Board suggested the introduction of a bylaw to prevent the consumption of alcohol on trains.

The file includes the minutes of a meeting between police and representatives of several football clubs to discuss solutions needed to prevent violence caused by drinking on trains.

The board suggested trains designed to transport citizens to sporting events should be 'dry'.

Another file contains research into weapons that were trialled during World War II including information on poison darts that were delivered from the air, with initial designs.

One report assessing the effectiveness of the darts said: "If penetrating into the flesh, will cause death if not plucked out within 30 seconds."

"If plucked out within this time, will cause disablement by collapse. Collapse occurs within one to five minutes, and death within 30 minutes."

Other files include documents about chemical warfare plans, South African townships and information on former rugby player Paul Alexander Scott, who joined the armed forces to serve in the Second World War.

The files can be accessed for free on the National Archives website.