The @ICOnews has disclosed a briefing document prepared for new Commissioner @JCE_IC on developing its #FOI strategy. whatdotheyknow.com/request/822108…
It refers to longstanding criticisms @CampaignFOI has made of @ICOnews over the extent to which it uses its enforcement powers under #FOI and a lack of focus on its FOI work compared to data protection.
It also says "delays in our complaint handling system do understandably draw criticism from some high-profile groups, including the @CampaignFoI and @openDemocracy" and "@MySociety have suggested that the Access to Information brief should be split out of the ICO's functions".
It sets out 3 possible options and recommends #2: "highlight our priority is to get casework back on track, but that we will continue to be active on live policy issues". It also says work to strengthen monitoring and enforcement is underway.
It highlights its wish to see the right of appeal to the first- tier Tribunal removed, so #FOI appeals could only be made to the Upper Tribunal on a point of law. This could prevent challenges where the ICO has simply accepted what the authority says, without proper questioning.
Another option was to prepare a report looking at the comprehensive case for #FOI reform. The briefing says "The former Commissioner requested a similar piece of work towards the end of her tenure, which she decided not to publish". It cites a lack of political will for reform.
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