UK Freedom of Information Act

What is the aim of the UK Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)?

• To restrict public access to official information

• To promote transparency within public authorities

• To increase government secrecy

• To limit the public's right to ask for information

Who can make a request for information under the FOIA?

• Only local councils

• Only members of the public

• Any person

• Only government officials

What is the time limit for public authorities to respond to FOIA requests?

• 20 working days

• 30 working days

• 15 working days

• 10 working days

What type of information can be exempt from disclosure under the FOIA?

• No information can be exempt

• Only confidential or sensitive information

• Any information held by public authorities

• Only information that could prejudice the security of the country

What can the public do if a public authority refuses to provide information?

• Contact the government directly

• Nothing, they have no recourse

• File a lawsuit against the public authority

• Appeal to the Information Commissioner's Office

What kind of information can the public access under the FOIA?

• A wide range of information

• Only information about government decision making

• Only information about public services

• Only information about government policy

What is the purpose of the FOIA?

• To limit public access to official information

• To increase government secrecy

• To promote transparency within public authorities

• To restrict the public's right to ask for information

Who are considered public authorities under the FOIA?

• Only government departments

• Only police forces

• Any organisation funded by the Government or providing services to the public

• Only local councils

What happens if a public authority withholds information under the FOIA?

• The requester can do nothing

• The requester can file a lawsuit

• The requester can appeal to the Information Commissioner's Office

• The requester can contact the government directly

What has the FOIA enabled the public to do?

• Access information about public services only

• Access a wide range of information

• Access information about government decision making only

• Access information about government policy only