University of Essex

The complainant has requested the University of Essex (the university) to disclose information relating to the cancellation of a Criminology event. The university refused to disclose the requested information citing sections 22, 31, 36, 41 and 40 of the FOIA.

The Commissioner’s decision is that the university is entitled to refuse to disclose the requested information in accordance with section 36(2)(b)(i) and (ii) of the FOIA. She has however recorded a breach of section 10 of the FOIA, as the university failed to respond to the complainant’s request within 20 working days of receipt. The Commissioner does not require any further action to be taken. Information Tribunal appeal EA/2021/0195 appeal withdrawn.