Freedom of Information
Introduction
The Freedom of Information Act 2000 places new duties on all public authorities, including police authorities and police forces. The Act is part of a wider initiative to make government and its decision-making processes more open and accountable and provide authorities with an opportunity to review their openness and accessibility.
The Information Commissioner is responsible for promoting the Act, advising on good practice and may overrule an authority's decision not to disclose information.
Summary of the Act
The Freedom of Information Act 2000 will be implemented fully in January 2005 when any individual or body will have the right of access to information held by the authority. This right of access includes both a right to be told whether the information exists, as well as the right to receive it. However, from June 2003, both police authorities and police forces are required to adopt and maintain a 'publication scheme' and to publish information in accordance with the scheme.
Publication Schemes
Under the Act, police authorities and police forces are required to adopt and maintain a publication scheme which sets out:
- the classes of information it publishes or intends to publish
- the manner in which it intends to publish the information
- whether a charge will be made for the information.
The purpose of the publication scheme is to ensure that a significant amount of information is made available to the public, without the need for a specific request, and to encourage pro-active publishing of information. In addition, it will help to promote greater openness and transparency in public authorities.
Hampshire Police Authority's publication scheme has been approved by the Information Commissioner, who will be overseeing and enforcing the Act.
