Freedom of Information: Frequently Asked Questions
What sort of information is covered by the Act?
The Act covers all recorded information 'held' by
public authorities. This can include information which is in a
published format - such as leaflets or reports; information in
standard 'reporting' formats - such as minutes of
meetings and supporting papers; information included in letters
and memoranda which pass between staff members; information
within contracts and other official documents of a similar
type, and information on audio tape and in e-mails. It can also
include information in documents produced or published by other
organisations but held by the Council (an example would be
government reports), and council information held by other
organisations for the council (private contractors for
example).
- When did the legislation come
into force?
- What sort of information is
covered by the Act?
- Data Protection requests have to
be made on a form and there is a charge. Will there be a similar form
for Freedom of Information requests? Will there be a charge?
- What about requests made face to
face with staff in contact points? Do these need to be in writing?
- What provision is made for
providing information in other formats (for example, as large print,
audio or Braille for people with visual disabilities and languages
other than English)?