COMMISSION FILE NO.: 0-29954 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION WASHINGTON D.C. 20549 --------------------- FORM 6-K PURSUANT TO RULE 13A-16 OR 15D-16 OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 --------------------- REPORT OF FOREIGN ISSUER FOR THE MONTH OF MAY 2002 --------------------- THE THOMSON CORPORATION (Translation of registrant's name into English) METRO CENTER ONE STATION PLACE STAMFORD, CONNECTICUT UNITED STATES 06902 (Address of principal executive offices) Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover Form 20-F or Form 40-F. Form 20-F [ ] Form 40-F [X] Indicate by check mark whether the registrant by furnishing the information contained in this Form is also thereby furnishing the information to the Commission to Rule 12g3-2(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Yes [ ] No [X] If "Yes" is marked, indicate below the file number assigned to the registrant in connection with Rule 12g3-2(b): 82-. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Information furnished on this form: Press release dated May 2, 2002 announcing the financial results of The Thomson Corporation for the three months ended March 31, 2002. EXHIBIT <Table> <Caption> EXHIBIT NUMBER PAGE - ------- ---- 1. Press release dated May 2, 2002 4 </Table> 2 SIGNATURES Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized. THE THOMSON CORPORATION (Registrant) By: /s/ STEPHANE BELLO ------------------------------------ Stephane Bello Senior Vice President and Treasurer Date: May 2, 2002 3