Refusing a request for information

There are a number of reasons where we may need to refuse an entire request

Reasons for refusing a request

it would cost too much or take too much staff time to deal with the request (the 'appropriate limit' under FOI)
it is vexatious or manifestly unreasonable
it repeats a previous request from the same person

In some cases, there will be a good reason why we will not be able to fulfil the request eg if we don't hold it, or an exemption or exception applies. If any such criteria apply, we will write to you explaining why we cannot provide the information requested.

Information exempted from disclosure

We aim to be as open and transparent as possible, but there are some circumstances where we will exempt information from disclosure.

This can only be done where there are clear grounds for doing so and our response will indicate that we have exempted information and the basis of that decision.

Click on the links for a full list of valid exemptions under FOI and the exceptions under EIR.