The Research Section has existed under the Home Office since 1957. Although it is a government institution, it has succeeded in maintaining its scientific autonomy, as demonstrated by its highly respected independent research publications. Research areas in which significant studies have been published include minority (ethnic) relations, crime prevention, police, sentencing, implementation of social work services in corrections, and alternatives to institutionalization (community service, supervised liberty, fines). Empirical research is deemed to affect policy cumulatively, by destroying myths (e.g., deterrent effects of imprisonment, effectiveness of rehabilitation treatment), pointing to new program directions, and testing, in turn, the efficacy of innovative approaches. The interaction between research scientists and government decisiomakers in the British setting appears to be conducive to mutual exchange and wise policymaking. One photograph and 37 footnotes are provided.