Key elements of the FOI Act

"Describe": Provide a step-by-step account.
"Explain": Give reasons why or how something happens, using technical terminology.
"Evaluate": Discuss strengths and weaknesses, then provide a justified conclusion.

Rights of Access: You are entitled to be told in writing if a public authority holds the information requested, and to have that information provided, subject to exemptions.

Types of Information: Covers emails, draft documents, photographs, and video recordings.

Scope: Applies to public authorities in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Scotland has its own separate legislation, the Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002.

Exemptions: Information may be withheld if it falls under specific exemptions, such as personal data, commercial interests, or legal privilege.

Fees: Authorities can charge for requests if they take too long (generally over 18 hours), or if there are disbursement costs.

Making a request: Requests must be in writing (email suffices), state the requester's name/contact address, and describe the information requested. You do not need to mention the Act, but you must ask for recorded information, not a general explanation.