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Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster

Answer

Dr. Goodson-Wickes: To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what progress has been made in the revision of the code of practice on access to Government information. [11012] Mr. Freeman: The revised "Code of Practice on Access to Government Information" and its associated "Guidance on Interpretation", have today been published. The changes made to both documents include a number which result from recommendations made in recent reports by the Public Service Committee and the Select Committee on the Parliamentary Commissioner for Administration. I am grateful to both Committees for their helpful contributions and believe that the revised code and guidance are improved as a result. I have also today published the revised "Departmental Evidence and Response to Select Committees" which now includes the "Code of Practice on Access to Government Information" as the clear, recognised minimum standard for providing information to Parliament in evidence given to Select Committees. In so far as the requirements of these documents differ from those in their earlier versions, Government Departments have been asked to ensure implementation from 1 February. These revised documents represent a further development of this Government's policy of openness. I am placing copies of all three documents in the Library of the House. In addition, I have already recently placed in the Library draft versions of all these documents which highlight the changes between the original and revised documents.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

11012; 288 c188-9W

Session

1996-97

Subjects

Disclosure of information Codes of practice Freedom of information Government information services