case study

Freedom of Information request from the media

the challenge:

A public authority client received a request for the disclosure of documentation under the Freedom of Information Act from a journalist at a national newspaper.  Although the client was able to disclose much of the documentation requested there were concerns over the disclosure of minutes from a board meeting where a sensitive issue was discussed.

our approach:

We advised on the application of two complicated statutory exemptions from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 – those relating to the non-disclosure of confidential information and personal information likely to cause the relevant third party data subject damage or distress.  We also provided the client with a letter for onward transmission to the journalist setting out the reasons for not disclosing the board meeting minutes.

the result: