Freedom of information. A guide for the UK private sector

Summary:

The guide explores the risks and benefits of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 (FOIA) and the Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 (FOISA) for private sector organizations.

Although the FOI legislation’s statutory obligations, including the ’right to know’, do not apply directly to private sector organizations, the legislation is already making an impact across the private sector.  Businesses need to be aware of the potential consequences of supplying information, submitting bids, and negotiating and contracting with public authorities.  Any individual or organization, such as newspapers, pressure groups or competitors, can submit a ‘right to know’ request to a public authority to disclose particular information held by or on behalf of that authority.

The book provides a summary of the law, explains the key issues, such as the ’right to know’, outlines potential scenarios involving the legislation and its impact on private sector organizations, explains the exemptions and gives guidance on dealing with the public sector and on contractual issues, with draft contract clauses included. 

Finally, the Guide includes information on using the legislation to your advantage for business intelligence purposes.

Contents

Chapter 1 – Background and main issues for the private sector
Chapter 2 – Environmental Information Regulations 2004 and the private sector
Chapter 3 – Relevant exemptions
Chapter 4 – Dealing with public authorities
Chapter 5 – Contracting with the public sector
Chapter 6 – Freedom of information for business advantage
Appendix – Draft freedom of information clauses
References