Department For Education (DFE)
- Date 23 July 2026
- Sector Central government
- Decision(s) FOI 36(2)(c): Not upheld, FOI 17(1): Upheld
The request sought a copy of an ICO audit report concerning the Department for Education (DfE), together with information about DfE's actions in response to a finding relating to compliance with UK GDPR transparency obligations. DfE provided some information falling within the scope of the request and withheld the full audit report under section 36(2)(c) of FOIA (prejudice to effective conduct of public affairs). DfE considers the public interest favours maintaining the exemption. The Commissioner’s decision is as follows: DfE is entitled to rely on section 36(2)(c) and the public interest favours maintaining the exemption. However, in failing to issue a valid refusal notice in respect of part one of the request within 20 working days, DfE did not comply with its duties under section 17(1) of FOIA. The Commissioner does not require any steps.