Freedom of Information

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) gives you the right to access recorded information held by public sector organisations. However, this is not an absolute right to receive information. Public authorities must consider each request and determine whether the information can be disclosed.

A public authority must take into account a range of exemptions within FOIA. These exemptions are designed to protect certain interests, such as the effective use of public resources or the prevention of crime. We must assess whether disclosing the requested information would prejudice any of those interests.

It is also important to note that disclosure under FOIA is considered to be disclosure to the world at large, rather than solely to the requester. This means we must consider the wider impact of releasing information.

Some information is exempt and cannot be provided. In some cases, exemptions are absolute. In others, the Public Interest Test applies. Where this applies, we must consider whether the public interest in disclosing the information outweighs the public interest in withholding it.

It is important to recognise that what may be of interest to the public is not necessarily the same as what is in the public interest.

You can find out more information here: More on exemptions.

Anyone can request information – there are no restrictions on your age, nationality or where you live.

Your request will be handled under different regulations depending on the kind of information you ask for, for example the: 

• Data Protection Act if you ask for information an organisation holds about you
• Environmental Information Regulations (EIRs) if you ask for environmental information 

 

Submit a Freedom of Information request »

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