Freedom of Information statistics

30/09/2005

Figures released today by the Department for Constitutional Affairs show that the CPS continues to respond in good time to the vast majority of Freedom of Information requests.

With regard to the percentage of resolvable requests granted in full, most requests have been for information contained within current or recently completed prosecutions.

Information held for a criminal investigation or criminal proceedings which the CPS conducts, or information where disclosure would prejudice law enforcement or the administration of justice can be subject to a degree of exemption under the FOIA.

Many individuals who make requests to the CPS ask for information about themselves under the FOIA. There is an exemption which diverts these requests into the Data Protection Act procedures and the CPS has seen a large rise in the number of applications under this legislation.

Other exemptions most often used by the CPS relate to information held for a criminal investigation or criminal proceedings; personal information where the applicant is not the subject of the information and release would breach the Data Protection Act; information obtained from another where disclosure would be an actionable breach of confidence; and information protected from disclosure by legislation or an EC obligation.

The CPS considers each request on its merits, balancing our responsibility to provide information with the need to protect the integrity of the judicial process, and particularly victim and witness information, which is vital for public confidence in the criminal justice system.

Notes to Editors

Media enquiries to CPS Press Office on 020 7796 8106.