The Freedom of Information (FOI) Act

Public sector organisations may hold information that is relevant to your business or industry. For example, information on their procurement processes, previous bid proposals or existing public contracts, and even information on your competitors. You have the right to request this information under the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act.

Exemptions may limit what you receive, if disclosure would result in someone's personal details or commercial secrets being revealed.

Before making an FOI request

Before you make a request, check if the information is already in the public domain (eg on the public body's website or publication scheme).

You should not make requests for your own personal data under the FOI provisions. Instead, make a subject access request under the UK General Data Protection Regulation.

How to make an FOI request

Any request you make for information under the FOI Act must be made in writing and include:

• your name
• your contact details (postal or email address)
• clear details of the information needed and preferred format

See how to access information from a public body.

What happens when you make an FOI request?

Public authorities must reply within 20 working days. They may:

• give you the information you asked for
• tell you if they don't have the information
• redirect your request to another authority, if needed
• charge a fee if allowed (rules apply)
• withhold information under an exemption and explain why
• tell you they need longer to respond - up to 40 days for public interest cases

Find ICO's guidance on time limits for compliance under the FOI Act.

Requests are handled 'applicant blind' - your identity and purpose do not matter.