Commissioner launches new hub on COVID-affected FOI law

A new hub on freedom of information (FOI) rights during the COVID-19 pandemic has been launched by the office of the Scottish Information Commissioner.  

The infohub pulls together guidance and information for public authorities and members of the public about FOI in Scotland during the pandemic.

It includes:

• details of the changes to FOI law made by the Coronavirus (Scotland) Act 2020 and what they mean in practice;
• information for the public about their rights and making requests at this time, together with answers to relevant frequently asked questions;
• guidance covering what new elements the Commissioner will take into account when investigating appeals made during this period, and tips on publishing information proactively;
• the Commissioner’s own policy on responding to requests for information during the pandemic, and other information his office has proactively published relevant to the impact of COVID-19 (such as legal advice received regarding whether the Coronavirus (Scotland) Act relates to all requests pending at the time the new Act came into force).

The infohub, available at this link, will be updated and added to as new information becomes available. The Commissioner can also be contacted by email at enquiries@itspublicknowledge.info