Ministers urged to stop ‘hiding from scrutiny’ by blocking FoI requests | Freedom of information | The Guardian

Government Spending on Blocking FOI Requests

Six UK government departments spent at least half a million pounds over four years fighting Freedom of Information (FOI) requests, revealed by openDemocracy's investigation. The Department of Health and Social Care alone spent over £278,000, including £129,000 on one case regarding ministerial diaries.

Public Concern over Secrecy

A Savanta ComRes poll found that nearly three-quarters of UK adults are concerned about rising government secrecy, particularly regarding the increasing refusal of FOI requests. Older adults expressed greater concern.

Government Response and Criticism

The government claims it balances transparency with protecting sensitive information and has the right to appeal ICO rulings. However, Peter Geoghegan of openDemocracy criticizes the use of public funds to avoid scrutiny.

Key Examples

• Department of Health: £129,000 to block ministerial diaries, £20,000 for hospital fire safety information, £87,000 for a childhood obesity policy document.
• Department for Work and Pensions: Over £80,000 on three appeals since 2018.
• Department for Education: At least £52,000 to prevent FOI releases.

The article also highlights a previous legal battle the government lost concerning an “Orwellian” unit accused of obstructing FOI requests.