Category Archives: Freedom of Information
Ofcom’s Sitefinder: rumours of its death have been greatly exaggerated?
I’ve always had more than a passing interest in the Ofcom Sitefinder, because prior to re-qualifying as a lawyer I was a communications engineer. I was also a specialist radiation safety officer. Sitefinder allows you to search any location or … Continue reading
Filed under Administrative Law, Freedom of Information, Telecoms Regulation
An FOI opportunity missed?
The Minister of Justice, Jack Straw, has disclosed in an audit report that 954 convicted criminals who had been released on licence from prison and then recalled, are still at large. The Daily Mail, in its article on the story, … Continue reading
Filed under Data Protection, Freedom of Information
Should Dr Malcolm Jack pack a toothbrush?
Dr Malcolm Jack is the Clerk of the House (of Commons), and since 1992 the Clerk of the House is also the Corporate Officer of the House of Commons. The House of Commons appeal to the High Court against the … Continue reading
Filed under Data Protection, Freedom of Information
The Chilling Effect
One of the many arguments put forward by opponents to freedom of information access is that the potential disclosure of information relating to the formation of public policy will inhibit free and frank discussions – the so-called chilling effect. This argument … Continue reading
Filed under Freedom of Information
FoI -v- DPA: House of Lords Showdown
Looks like it’s even on points – see Outlaw’s exclusive report. So, I guess you could say if the numbers are low, “barnadised” data is “bastardized”!!!
Filed under Data Protection, Freedom of Information
Is “personal data” private data?
It had to happen sooner rather than later: a case has reached the Information Tribunal that has required the Tribunal to consider head on what is “personal data” under the Data Protection Act 1998. To make matters less clear, the … Continue reading
Filed under Data Protection, Freedom of Information
Groundbreaking Scottish FOI decision orders full disclosure of PFI contract
In a groundbreaking decision, the Scottish Information Commissioner has ordered disclosure of the full contract governing a PFI deal between a Scottish health authority and a private contractor. This includes disclosure of full details of the commercial arrangements between the … Continue reading
Filed under Freedom of Information
Queen’s Speech – NTR
Although yesterday’s Queen’s Speech contained a commitment by the Government to openness and accountability, do not expect any measures to strengthen the freedom of information regime in the UK. Details of the Constitutional Renewal Draft Bill do not contain any … Continue reading
Filed under Freedom of Information
PM U-Turn on FOI Fees and on Extending FOI Scope to Private Companies
Prime Minister abolishes draft fees regulations and announces consultation on extending scope of FOIA to certain private companies. The Prime Minster promised “new rights to access public information where previously it had been withheld”. Gordon Brown (in a speech on … Continue reading
Filed under Freedom of Information
Andrew Sharpe
