FREEDOM OF INFORMATION: THE EXEMPTIONS

The exemptions of the FOI Act allow public authorities to protect information that if disclosed might cause unjustified harm to the authority itself, individuals or other bodies. However, applying them inappropriately can lead to adverse decisions from the regulator and reputational damage. This course looks at every one of the exemptions in the FOI Act, highlighting what you need to know about each. We will also explain what needs to be included in responses to FOI requests when refusing to provide information. TESTIMONIALS

“This course gave me an insight into FOI exemptions that I wish I could have had years

ago. Paul, the presenter, was very knowledgeable and engaging.”

SR, Office of Rail Regulation

“Excellent course, very experienced practitioner delivering practical advice on application of

exemptions.” GM, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute NI

“The overview of all exemptions made me think of ones I never have before.”

CS, North Lincolnshire Council

“The exercises were really useful in helping me understand how to apply exemptions and

consider the public interest test.” KM, Wigan Council

“Excellent course for both experienced and novice FOI managers/administrators.”

SS, East Kent University Hospitals NHS Trust

VENUES, DATES AND BOOKING Full list of dates and booking can be found on our website www.actnow.org.uk/courses

PROGRAMME – 10.00am to 4.00pm

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

Introduction to FOI exemptions • absolute exemptions • qualified exemptions • prejudice-based and class-based exemptions

National security, crime and safety • exemptions covering national security issues • prevention of crime and investigations • health and safety

Administrative exemptions • accessible through other means • future publication

Commerce, confidentiality and legal issues • information provided in confidence • commercial interests • the economy, audit functions • legal advice, court records

Personal information • FOI and data protection • how the personal data exemption works

Communications between institutions • UK bodies • international relations • the Royal Household

Policy development and safety nets • formulation of government policy • prejudice to effective conduct of public

affairs • prohibitions on disclosure

What to put in responses • explaining how exemptions have been

applied • outlining public interest tests • complaints procedures.