The Freedom Of Information Act and Open Government

UK Open Government Network
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I have recently made a request for information to an English local authority relating to a safeguarding children issue. It involves a leisure centre commissioned by a local authority which I attend three times a week and have done for three years. I contend the provider does not operate according to NSPCC guidelines but both councils involved, at district and county level, and the Safeguarding Children Board content that the operation is in line with the guidance. I therefore asked for evidence of how this conclusion was reached to which they have responded under section 41, confidentiality, of the Freedom of Information Act. This may be an area where open government only exists in name with a ‘get out of jail free’ card allowing suppression of the truth. Discuss…