A Bill to amend the Freedom of Information Act 2000 to remove provisions permitting Ministers to overrule decisions of the Information Commissioner and Information Tribunal; to limit the time allowed for public authorities to respond to requests involving consideration of the public interest; to amend the definition of public authorities; and for connected purposes.
House of Commons
1 May 2012
The Freedom of Information (Amendment) Bill would change the Freedom of Information Act 2000 by removing Ministers' power to overrule decisions by the Information Commissioner and the Information Tribunal. It would also limit the time allowed for public authorities to respond to FOI requests when the public interest is being considered, and it would redefine what counts as a public authority. The changes aim to clarify oversight and adjust the scope of FOI coverage under connected purposes.
The bill is currently at the 2nd reading in the House of Commons. If it progresses, it would move to committee stage, then report stage and third reading, before moving to the House of Lords.
Generated 21 February 2026
The Bill was not moved for debate on 17 June 2011. The order to read the Bill a second time lapsed. There is no indication when the Bill will progress further.
The Bill had its First reading on 7 September 2010 through the Ten Minute Rule.
If you require any further information about the Bill then please contact the sponsoring Member Tom Brake.
No recorded votes for this bill yet.
