Freedom of Information Update - Latest Foi Decisions And the Public Interest Test (an Update on the Latest Commissioner, Tribunal And Court Decisions Under FOI)

INTRODUCTION
Under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 (FOI), every month there are around thirty appeal decisions published by the Information Commissioner and five by the First Tier Tribunal (Information Rights). It is essential that all FOI practitioners and advisers keep up to date with these and other developments. This workshop examines all the latest FOI decisions and guidance and applies them to real life scenarios. It is packed full of case studies designed to teach delegates the key factors to be considered when making decisions about FOI exemptions and the Public Interest Test. Time will also be devoted to practicing the drafting of Refusal Notices, a subject which the Information Commissioner has drawn attention to in his decisions. Delegates will also receive a comprehensive training pack containing useful checklists, flowcharts and guidance notes.

PROGRAMME - 10.00am to 4.00pm

Latest FOI news roundup

• Coalition plans to extend FOI
• New information disclosure requirements
• New Exemptions
• Latest ICO Guidance

Key exemptions under FOI

• Absolute or Qualified?
• Class based or prejudice based?
• Detailed explanation of each exemption
• Balancing the Public Interest
• Common misconceptions

Latest decisions and cases on each exemption

• Third party personal data
• Salaries and expenses
• Contracts and tenders
• Requests from What Do They Know.com
• Vexatious requests
• Internal e mails
• Statistics
• Job evaluation information
• Campaign and cumulative requests
• Restrictions on re use of information

Refusing requests

• Drafting Refusal Notices
• Complying with section 17
• The Appeals process

The Public Interest Test

• What is it?
• Factors to consider in each exemption
• How to demonstrate it in Refusal Notices
• Who decides?

Other legislation and cases that impact on FOI

• Audit Commission Act
• Data Protection Act
• Environmental Information Regulations

Case Studies for Discussion

This is an interactive workshop. There will be case studies and exercises to work through. Delegates are also encouraged to bring along their own FOI case studies, scenarios and common problems for discussion in a confidential setting.