7
Deferred
During the inquiry, the Committee received multiple examples of poor FOI handling in central Government...
Conclusion
During the inquiry, the Committee received multiple examples of poor FOI handling in central Government departments, particularly in relation to non-applicant blind handling, how Public Interest Tests are evaluated and delays in Freedom of Information handling.
Government Response Summary
The government states that the ICO's sponsor department is DCMS, which works with the Cabinet Office to stay updated on FOI policy and discuss budgetary responsibility, to avoid potential conflicts of interest.
Paragraph Reference
45
Government Response
Deferred
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
The Government believes it is important that the Information Commissioner’s Office is funded at a sufficient level to enable the Commissioner to carry out his statutory 6 The Cabinet Office Freedom of Information Clearing House: Government Response functions. The ICO’s sponsor department within the Government is the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). DCMS works with the Cabinet Office to remain updated on Freedom of Information policy and to discuss budgetary responsibility where appropriate. This governance structure helps to avoid any perception that there is a potential conflict of interest with FOI policy. We would remind the Committee that the Information Commissioner has a number of regulatory and legislative duties including Data Protection. The Cabinet Office Freedom of Information Clearing House: Government Response 7
Source
Report
Ninth Report - The Cabinet Office Freedom of Information Clearing House
29 Apr 2022
HC 505
Timeline
Recommendation age
4.1 yrs
Report published
29 Apr 2022