Freedom of Information Act

The Freedom of Information Act gives a general right of access to information held by public authorities including central government, local authorities, the NHS, schools and the police. It is intended to promote greater openness and accountability.

General right of access

The public has a statutory general right of access to 'recorded' information held by public authorities in any form. In other words, anyone can ask public authorities for any information they hold, this is subject to a number of exemptions.