FOI research reveals doubts over culture change

FOI research reveals doubts over culture change

The Scottish Information Commissioner, Kevin Dunion, has spoken out after a new poll found a drop in the number of people who said public bodies were more transparent.

A study undertaken for the Commissioner revealed peoples' doubts about whether there had been a culture change in public bodies.

However, two-thirds of people said more data was available than before the law. The survey of 1,000 people, carried out last month, revealed that 60% believed organisations were becoming more open and accountable, compared to 67% in a previous study. It also found that 76% of those who have made requests since the Freedom of Information Act came into force in 2005 had received all or some of the information requested.

Public bodies 'not open enough' (BBC News, 20 November 2006)