Freedom of information

This subtopic contains a range of materials concerning freedom of information, focusing on the regime under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 (FIA 2000).

The freedom of information regime

In England, Wales and Northern Ireland the freedom of information regime is governed by FIA 2000, which grants a general right of access to information held by public authorities, while also placing an obligation on such authorities to make certain information available to the public proactively and regularly. The body responsible for enforcing the regime is the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO).

The regime in Scotland contains similar rights governed by different legislation. The Scottish Information Commissioner is responsible for enforcement in relation to Scottish public authorities. Public authorities that span the whole of the UK, such as the BBC or Ministry of Defence, are governed by the regime for England, Wales and Northern Ireland created by FIA 2000.

For introductory guidance on the freedom of information regime, see Practice Notes:

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Introduction to freedom of information
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Who is subject to the freedom of information regime

Rights and duties under the freedom of information

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