FOI publication scheme consultation underway

Updated November 2011

The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) is consulting on proposed changes to its model publication scheme. The ICO will be updating the model publication scheme to take account of advances made in transparency initiatives and opportunities afforded by technology advances which enable new means of analysing and using public information.

The proposals include amendments to bring the model publication scheme in line with transparency agenda initiatives, in particular:

• Extending the definitions documents for local government to incorporate the guidance in the 'Code of recommended practice for local authorities on data transparency' by March 2012;
• Extending the definition documents for central government to incorporate the publication standards set by the Cabinet Office for central government (for example to include information on senior staff remuneration, organograms, management and business plans, public spending, meetings, special advisers) by March 2012.

The ICO is also asking for views on whether the ICO's approach of providing one model scheme with sector-specific guidance is the best approach, whether it will be possible to agree updates in relation to areas of public spending and salary disclosures by July 2012, whether/how the scope of information that is proactively published should be extended, use of open data formats and the basis of re-use of information published in publication schemes.

See Related links for a copy of the consultation.

The deadline for responses is 21 December 2011.

This publication is intended for general guidance and represents our understanding of the relevant law and practice as at November 2011. Specific advice should be sought for specific cases; we cannot be held responsible for any action (or decision not to take action) made in reliance upon the content of this publication.

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