Freedom of Information Flashcards
What is the purpose of the Freedom of Information Act 2000?
Legislation design to make public orgs more transparent and accountable and introduces a public ‘right to know’ in relation to public bodies.
In the UK, who does it apply to?
Public bodies such as central & local gov’, NHS, edu authorities, military services…
What bodies does it exclude?
Intelligence services, parts of the BBC, as well as absolute and qualified exemptions.
List 5 absolute exemptions from the Act?
Info accessible by other means, related to security, contained in court records, breaches Data Protection Act, infringe parliament privilege.
List 5 qualified exemptions from the Act?
Class based: Info related to comms with royal family, info intended for future publication.
Harm based: Likely to harm int’ relations, economic interests, or law enforcement.
What is the publication scheme?
Every public authority must make some information available as a manner of routine through a publication scheme. A publication scheme is both a public commitment to make certain information available and a guide to how that information can be obtained. It contains information about how to file Freedom of Information requests and the associated process. It also contains information about how to make a complaint
What is the general process?
Letter or email 2) Info provided within 20 days, or delay explained 3) Small fee (opt)
What are the grounds under which a citizen can complain that their FOI request has not been answered?
Untimely response, not given the info requested form, failed to properly explain why if refused. Must complain to org first, then the Info Commissioner.
What is the Environmental Info Regulations 2004 relate to in regards to FOI?
Based on EU directive giving statutory right to access env info held by UK. The Environmental Information Regulations provide a statutory right of access to environmental information held by UK public authorities, including the Council.
Under this legislation, a citizen can ask a public body to provide information about decisions, policies and activities that affect the environment.
Your neighbour could use this to ask the council for information about the environmental impact of building a swimming pool.
