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Freedom of Information Act - Friends of the Earth comment
28 June 2006
The Constitutional Affairs Committee report on the first year of the Freedom of Information Act was welcomed by Friends of the Earth today (Wednesday 28 June) . The report criticises public authorities for delays in processing requests for information and carrying out internal reviews. The report also criticises the Information Commissioner for the time taken to respond to requests for information and resolve complaints.
Friends of the Earth's Head of Legal, Phil Michaels said:
"This report is very timely. Freedom of information legislation has the power to change the relationship between citizen and state in a profound and positive way. However, delays by public authorities in responding to requests and by the Information Commissioner's office in dealing with complaints are seriously undermining the effectiveness of the legislation. It is essential that the Information Commissioner moves quickly to improve his procedures so that he can stamp down on recalcitrant public authorities with real credibility. If additional funding is needed to support the Information Commissioner's important role then the Department of Constitutional Affairs should look to provide it quickly."
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Published by Friends of the Earth Trust
Last modified: Jun 2008
