London Borough of Southwark
- Date 20 April 2022
- Sector Local government
- Decision(s) FOI 12(1): Not upheld, FOI 16(1): Upheld
The complainant requested information from the London Borough of Southwark (“the Council”) relating to strategy meetings that took place during a specific time period. The Council denied holding some information within the scope of the request and refused the remainder citing section 12(1) of the FOIA.
The Commissioner’s decision is that the Council was entitled to refuse to comply with the request in accordance with section 12(1) of the FOIA.
However, he finds that the Council failed to provide reasonable advice and assistance and therefore failed to meet its obligations under section 16(1) of the FOIA.
The Commissioner requires the Council to take the following steps to ensure compliance with the legislation.
Provide the complainant with advice and assistance to help him submit a request falling within the appropriate limit.
The Council must take these steps within 35 calendar days of the date of this decision notice. Failure to comply may result in the Commissioner making written certification of this fact to the High Court pursuant to section 54 of the Act and may be dealt with as a contempt of court.