FOI Decision finds Request to University not Vexatious

The University of Stirling refused a FOI request from a tobacco company on the grounds that it was vexatious under FOISA.  The Scottish Information Commissioner found that the request submitted by PMI to the University of Stirling would impose a significant burden on the university, but did not consider that in the circumstances this alone was enough to deem the request vexatious (in terms of s14 of FOISA).  The decision also explored where it is appropriate to seek clarification of an FOI request and the need for a reasonable approach.
The decision in full is available from the Scottish Information Commissioner’s website.
JISC Legal provides free guidance on Freedom of Information.
The Scottish Information Commissioner has also published guidance on Vexatious or Repeated Requests.
The Information Commissioner’s Office has published A Short Guide to Vexatious Requests.

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Posted on 21/07/2011

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