Freedom of Information (Private Healthcare Companies) Bill

Key Points

• Extends the Freedom of Information Act 2000 to private healthcare companies delivering NHS-funded care.
• Requires covered providers to handle FOI requests and disclose information in line with FOIA, subject to the usual exemptions.
• Covers NHS contracts with private providers and related activities under a framework described as 'connected purposes'.
• Introduced in the Commons and currently at the 2nd reading stage; sponsored by Grahame Morris (Labour (Co-op)).
• Aims to improve transparency and public accountability of private sector involvement in publicly funded healthcare.

Progress

The bill is currently at the 2nd reading in the House of Commons. It originated in the Commons, with a first reading in 2013, and has not yet become law.