Publication Scheme - Compton and Shawford PC

Parish Council Publication Scheme

Table of Contents

Background

The Freedom of Information Act 2000 received Royal Assent on 30^th November 2000. The Act defines the public authorities that are covered by the Act and so are required to adopt and maintain a publication scheme. Paragraph 7, Part II of Schedule 1 of the Freedom of Information Act defined a "local council" within the meaning of the Local Government Act 1972 as a public authority.

What is a Publication Scheme?

Under the Act, every public authority is required to adopt and maintain a Publication Scheme. This scheme provides the public with a structured listing of any information released, with authorities undertaking a commitment to make it available to all. The scheme must set out how the Parish Council intends to charge for providing the information. In this scheme, the term "publication" refers to documents available in a variety of formats.

Model Scheme

Compton and Shawford Parish Council's publication scheme defines information that the Parish Council holds and which is accessible to members of the public. The Parish Council strives to be as open as possible with local government information and the work it does. The Parish Council wishes to introduce greater openness and to continue to seek ways to make even more information available to the public.

What Charges are there?

Where a member of the public is seeking to obtain a copy of information included in this Parish Council's publication scheme, the council may set reasonable charges for this. Costs are available on application by post to the Clerk and may include photocopying costs, postage (where incurred) and staff time.

Confidentiality Notice

Compton and Shawford Parish Council's policy is to be as open as possible and to supply the information requested, but the Parish Council may withhold any information if it considers its release not to be in the public interest and could cause significant harm. Any sensitive and confidential information is exempt from public dissemination. Any exclusions as prescribed by law are referenced in the publication scheme.

Requests for Information

Anyone can request information in writing or by e-mail.

The request must include details of the applicant's address in the Parish and the information sought.

The applicant has two rights, to be told whether the information is held by the Parish Council and to receive the information as a copy or summary, if considered to be in the public interest.

The Parish Council will respond within 20 days of the request. If a fee is required, the Parish Council can extend this period up to 3 months until the fee is paid.

Requests for information should be addressed to:-

David Drake, Clerk, Compton & Shawford Parish Council
PO BOX 565, Winchester, Hampshire SO23 3HG
Phone: 01962 600198
email: