The Scottish Government

This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007

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Freedom of Information debate

17/01/2002

The proposed Freedom of Information Bill is intended to deliver reform in three basic principles, Deputy First Minister Jim Wallace told the Parliament today.

These are:

1. A general legal right to access information
2. A limited number of narrowly drawn exemptions to protect sensitive information
3. A powerful, independent Scottish Information Commissioner to promote and enforce the legislation, with the powers to order disclosure of information

Speaking during the Stage 1 debate, Mr Wallace said:

"This is an important Bill specifically designed for Scotland. Freedom of Information encourages public debate. Indeed information is the currency of an open, democratic society. An effective Freedom of Information regime will result in more information in the public domain. It will encourage public authorities to make information available voluntarily. The reasons for decisions affecting all our lives will be readily available.

"The Bill covers not only the Scottish Parliament and the Scottish Executive, but the NHS in Scotland; the police; local authorities; universities and colleges; as well as the many other organisations which make up the public sector.

"Freedom of Information can make a real difference to the level and quality of civic participation and I am glad that throughout the entire process there has been a warm welcome to our proposals.

"I am pleased that the importance of this Bill is recognised by the Justice 1 Committee in their report last week and that they recommend that the Parliament agrees today the general principles of the Bill."

"There can be no questions about our commitment to early implementation. The five year provision included is a backstop. It is not an indication that we expect implementation to take five years. Our preparations for early implementation are already in motion. Indeed we hope the Scottish Parliament Corporate Body will soon be in a position to begin the appointment process of the Scottish Commissioner following the completion of Stage 1.

"Let there be no doubt about our commitment - to early implementation; to openness; and to an effetcive and balanced Freedom of Information regime . FoI is an important issue - it should have a particular resonance with this Parliament. The development of this Bill has been deliberate and informed - as a result, it is a strong, balanced Bill."