I AM writing concerning the Independent Commission on Freedom of Information and the call for evidence.

This formal commission was established in July to review the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act.

Specifically it is considering the balance between transparency, accountability and the need for sensitive information to have robust protection, and whether the operation of the Act adequately recognises the need for a ‘safe space’ for policy development, implementation and frank advice.

There have been various reports on the purpose of this commission.

I would like to reiterate that nothing in this process is predetermined.

The commission is an independent body and is interested in gathering as much objective evidence from interested parties as possible.

The call for evidence was launched on October 9 and the commission has received to date approximately 16,000 responses from a wide range of organisations, individuals and civil society groups.

As you have a significant interest in the FOI Act, I would like to take this opportunity to remind you of the deadline to submit evidence – midnight today.

All evidence received will be given careful consideration by the commission and used to help formulate the commission’s final report.

You can submit your response online at the following link: https://consult.justice.gov.uk/foicommission/call-for-evidence or by email to the following address: foi.commission@justice.gsi.gov.uk, or in writing to: Independent Commission on Freedom of Information, 9.54, 9th Floor, 102 Petty France, London, SW1H 9AJ.

LORD TERRY BURNS GCB
Chairman to the Independent Commission on Freedom of Information