Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question relates to the number of FOI requests denied by the Cabinet Office under a specific exemption, with an emphasis on transparency and accountability in government operations.
How many requests under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 have been denied by his Department citing an exemption under section 35(1)(a) of that Act in each of the last five years?
Statistics for the requests made under each subsection of section 35 are not held by the Cabinet Office. However, to assist the House, I will share the number of FOI requests refused under the entirety of section 35 in each of the last five years. In 2021, 150 FOI requests were refused. In 2020, there were 142; in 2019, 67; in 2018, 81; and in 2017, 63.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer did not provide the specific subsection statistics requested under section 35(1)(a).
Statistics For The Requests Made Under Each Subsection Of Section 35 Are Not Held By The Cabinet Office.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is concerned about the lack of detailed statistics on FOI requests denied under specific exemptions, particularly in relation to government policy formulation. He also seeks information on legal costs associated with defending decisions challenged at tribunals.
It is obviously disappointing that the Department does not collect those statistics given that the paragraph in question specifically relates to Government policy. I do not expect an answer today, but perhaps the Minister can write to me on the number of instances when decisions were subject to challenge at either the first-tier tribunal or upper tribunal and how much the Department spent in legal costs defending each challenge.
I thank the hon. Member for his question. I remind him that responses are handled in line with the legislation, which includes applying the relevant exemptions where applicable. Parliament has agreed that certain sensitive information should be protected from disclosure, including information relating to the formulation and development of Government policy. I am however happy to write to him and will try to provide him with as much information as possible.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer did not commit to providing the requested detailed statistics on legal challenges and costs associated with FOI decisions.
Responses Are Handled In Line With The Legislation, Which Includes Applying The Relevant Exemptions Where Applicable
Response accuracy