Freedom Of Information - It's Our Right To Know

Freedom of Information laws have been in force in Scotland since 1^st January 2005 giving the public a right of access to all types of recorded information such as emails, meeting notes, reports and research held by public authorities.  But are we taking full advantage of our rights? 

According to the Scottish Information Commissioner's 2010 report, since the introduction of the legislation, a staggering 10,000 requests for information have been made from members of the public, private organisations, trade unions, campaigners, and the media. 

In Scotland, the public authorities whom we have access to information from include governmental departments, the police force, hospitals and educational institutions.  Applications in respect of information held by such bodies must be made to the Scottish Information Commissioner who will carry out an investigation and make a decision as to whether the authorities are justified in withholding the information.