Freedom of Information 2023

In March 2023, the Scottish Government concluded its Access to Information Rights in Scotland consultation and began analysis of the responses. With a formal response to the consultation expected from the government later in the year, our opening session will feature a keynote address from the Minister for Parliamentary Business, George Adam MSP, who will provide an update on progress and next steps.

With public responses to the government's consultation now online, we will be bringing together some of those who responded to hear their views on potential reforms, how they might be affected by their introduction, and how they might prepare for change. The panel will also feature organisations that responded to Katy Clark MSP's consultation on a proposed FOI Reform Bill, which closed in March 2023.

In this interactive session, you and your team will be battling the FOI clock, and other teams, to produce the best possible response to an FOI request. 

At each stage, your team will make decisions on how you'll proceed, based on the information given and your knowledge of FOISA. The decisions you make will determine whether you end up with a highly satisfied requester.

During the session, you'll have the opportunity to look at and discuss not only what makes the most citizen-centric approach, but also examine your organisational and administrative blockers.

Changes to policy and organisational processes all impact on how staff carry out their day-to-day jobs. But how can those involved in FOI develop their own personal skills, grow within their roles, and identify and pursue opportunites for career progression? Our final session will seek to address these questions and showcase work already underway within the public sector.