Leicester City Council

The complainant has requested a copy of any documents held by the council in preparation of a question which would be asked in an open council meeting. Leicester City Council (“the council”) refused the request on the basis that section 36(2)(b)(i) and section 36(2)(c) applied (prejudice to the effective conduct of public affairs). The Commissioner’s decision is that the council was correct to find that the exemptions were engaged, however the public interest in disclosure outweighs that in the exemption being maintained in this case. The Commissioner requires the council to take the following steps to ensure compliance with the legislation. To disclose a copy of the briefing note to the complainant. To carry out further searches for information and to respond to the complainant's request again as required by section 1 of FOIA.