I've moved your thread (topic) to the Standard sub-forum, because what you have is part of an Imperial Model 60. The Imperial standards were component machines, which means they could be quickly disassembled. Take a look at the ad I've included that shows it being taken apart; it should be obvious from the photos which section of the machine you have. The Model 60 was first manufactured in 1949; if you get the serial number off the machine we can give you an exact year of manufacturer for it.

Now here's the million dollar question: Where's the rest of the typewriter?

It's a 1954 model. 

I think the section you have is referred to as the keyboard component, but I'm not sure.

It's a shame that the other components are missing. It looks like someone was restoring - or at least deep cleaning - the typewriter. The good news for you is that you're located in the UK and there should be plenty of Model 60 machines available in your area. They're a fantastc typewriter (I have a Model 55) and it would be worth spending some time completing the one you have. Thetypewriterman, who is another member here, is in the UK too and might be able to help you out (he's a typewriter technician) if you're serious about turning your 60 into a working machine.

It was made in 1954.  That particular part was called the 'unit' or 'type unit'.  It could be slid out of the front of the machine after releasing the catches, rather like a drawer.  It would come most of the way out, but remain in the machine for cleaning - or - it could be lifted right out of the machine altogether.  The idea behind this (apart from ease of servicing) was that another 'unit' could be put into the typewriter with (say) a scientific keyboard.  This wasn't an engineer's job - the typist was expected to do it.  Once you have the knack, you can exchange one in seconds !

Seems like the Demountables of the 1920's made in Fond Du Lac, Wisconsin. Didn't know anyone else had made machines like this. Most interesting and how practical.