Publication scheme
The aim of the publication scheme is to explain what information we make available to the public.
Public authorities have a duty to specify what classes of information they publish, how the information is made available and whether it is available free of charge or upon payment. In this context, ‘publish’ simply means, ‘to make publicly available’ in whatever format the information exists (for example as an electronic document, printed book, video or leaflet).
Exemptions
Some information held by public bodies is regarded as exempt information under Part ll of the FOIA. There are 24 such exemptions and they can be applied to information held for a variety of purposes. The exemptions include material related to national security, law enforcement, formulation of government policy, information provided in confidence, commercial interests and personal data (individuals already have the right of access to information about themselves under the Data Protection Act 1998). These exemptions have been considered when determining the content of our publication scheme.
Charging for publication scheme items
What is charged for copies of certain types of content that we issue on request.
Information on the internet
Information is free of charge on the website (ie there is no charge by us, although the user would of course have to meet any charges by their internet service provider, personal printing costs, etc).
Information in hard copy
For those without internet access, a single print-out from the website page(s) will be available by post by contacting us; if a charge applies you will be informed. Requests for multiple print-outs or for archived copies of documents which are no longer available on the web may attract a charge for the cost of retrieval, photocopying, postage etc. You will be informed of this at the time of your request. The charge will be payable in advance.
Glossy or other bound paper copies may involve a charge. This again will be specified at the time of request.
Crown copyright
Material featured in this publication scheme is subject to Crown copyright protection unless otherwise indicated. The Crown copyright protected material may be reproduced free of charge in any format or media without requiring specific permissions. This is subject to the material being reproduced accurately and not being used in a derogatory manner or in a misleading context. Where the material is being published or issued to others, the source and copyright status must be acknowledged.
The permission to reproduce Crown copyright protected material does not extend to any material on this site that is identified as being the copyright of a third party. Authorisation to reproduce such material must be obtained from the copyright holders concerned.