Governments, public funders of research and universities worldwide are increasingly recognising that improving the dissemination of research raises their research profile and contributes to national competitiveness. The traditional system of research publishing is inefficient, uncompetitive and restrictive. It limits access by researchers and students as well as the wider public. Many people think that the results of research that has been funded with public money should be freely available. This Briefing examines the issues. (Contains 28 notes.)