Freedom of Information
The Freedom of Information Act (FOI Act) came into force on 1 January 2005. The act means that all recorded information held by Oxfordshire County Council is open to the public, unless an exemption applies.
The act is retrospective, so recorded information dating from before 1 January 2005 is also open to the public.
See the how to request information page for more details of how to request information under the The Freedom of Information Act.
What is recorded information?
Recorded information includes:
- paper records
- emails
- information stored on computer
- audio or videocassettes
- microfiche
- maps
- photographs
- handwritten notes
The Freedom of Information Act requires all public authorities to adopt and maintain a publication scheme. The Publication scheme explains the information that is available, how it can be accessed and whether or not there is a charge for it.
Freedom of Information Policy
Oxfordshire County Council's Corporate Freedom of Information Act Policy (.pdf format, 38 Kb) sets out how the council will respond to information request under the FOI Act.
Can I see all information held by the council?
The FOI Act set out exemptions that may restrict access to some information. Please see the link below for detailed guidance on the FOI exemptions:
However please be aware that some information may also be withheld because it is covered by the Data Protection Act. Please see the link on the right for more information about Data Protection.
How do I make a complaint or appeal a decision?
If you are unhappy with a decision made by the council in response to your request for information then you can apply for an internal review of the decision.
If you remain dissatisfied then your appeal can be taken to the Information Commissioner's Office.
We are always happy to hear any comments or suggestions that you have on the way the council provides information. If you would like to make a recommendation please forward your comments using the contact details on the right.
Other languages
The Freedom of Information Act 2000 leaflet is available in the other languages below:
This page was last updated on 26 February 2008
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