How to make a freedom of information (FOI) request: Overview - GOV.UK

How to make a freedom of information (FOI) request: Overview - GOV.UK
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How to make a freedom of information (FOI) request
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Overview
You have the right to ask to see recorded information held by
public authorities
.
The Freedom of Information Act (
FOIA
) and Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act (
FOISA
) give you the right to see information.
If you ask for environmental information, your request will be handled under the Environmental Regulations (
EIRs
) or Environmental Information (Scotland) Regulations (
EISRs
).
Environmental information includes things like carbon emissions or the environment’s effect on human health.
You do not need to tell the organisation which law or regulations you’re making your request under.
Personal information
There is a
different way to make a request
if you want information that an organisation holds about you. This includes things like your health records or credit reference files.
View a printable version of the whole guide
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