Freedom of Information
Wednesday 09 July 2008
The prospect of extending the Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act to cover more organisations carrying out certain public functions has been raised.
Parliamentary Business Minister Bruce Crawford said the Government is committed to fully exploring the issues around coverage, but stressed that a final decision on extending coverage would be taken only after consultation with interested parties and those organisations potentially affected.
As a first step, Mr Crawford will have discussions with interested parties about bringing within the scope of the Act the following organisations:
- Registered social landlords
- Contractors who provide public services that are a function of a public authority (for example, contractors providing prison services)
- Local authority trusts or bodies set up by local authorities (for example, bodies set up by local authorities as limited companies to run leisure facilities)
Mr Crawford said: "The Scottish Government is committed to the principles that underpin Freedom of Information legislation. Principles of openness and transparency, essential parts of open democratic government and responsive public services.
"The organisations we are looking at in terms of coverage have not been chosen at random. They are bodies about which concerns over a lack of coverage have consistently been raised with us. The concerns may have arisen because of changes in the way public services are delivered - for example the contracting out of services traditionally provided directly by a public authority. Discussions will take place before any decision is taken to formally consult. But formal consultation is not a rubber-stamping exercise. But I believe it is only right to give serious thought to extending FOI coverage in Scotland. I am keen to ensure that Scotland continues to build a reputation for greater transparency and accountability".
The Act came into force on January 1, 2005 and provides a statutory right of access to information held by Scottish public authorities. These include, for example, the Scottish Government, the Scottish Parliament, local authorities, schools, colleges, NHS Scotland and the police. The Act also requires the proactive publication of certain information. Compliance with the Act is promoted and enforced by the Scottish Information Commissioner.