Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs

The complainant has requested from DEFRA copies of email traffic concerning the Individual Performance Management system and its implementation between specific dates. The Commissioner’s decision is that DEFRA has not provided sufficient reasons for applying the exemption where the cost of compliance exceeds the appropriate limit. The Commissioner has also decided that DEFRA did not provide adequate advice and assistance. However, the Commissioner does not require the public authority to take any steps to ensure compliance with the legislation as the complainant is already in possession of the information he required.