Freedom of Information
The Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 gives a general right of access to all types of recorded information held by public authorities. It also sets out exemptions to that right and places a number of related obligations on public authorities, particularly in relation to Records Management and Publication Schemes.
As of 1 January 2005, people have had the right to make a request for information and be informed whether or not the public authority holds that information and, subject to various statutory exemptions, be supplied with that information.
Guidance for applicants is available from the Scottish Information Commissioner.
Requests for information can be submitted to foi@spa.police.uk or to the following address:
Corporate Management Team
Scottish Police Authority
1 Pacific Quay
Glasgow
G51 1DZ
Freedom of Information Policy and Procedure
Publication Scheme
Public authorities are also required to adopt and maintain a Publication Scheme setting out the classes of information available, the manner in which they intend to publish the information, and whether a charge will be made for the information. The purpose of a Publication Scheme is to ensure information is available without the need for a specific request. Schemes are intended to encourage organisations to publish more information pro-actively and to develop a greater culture of openness.
The Scottish Police Authority has adopted the Model Publication Scheme produced and updated by the Scottish Information Commissioner (SIC) in November 2018. A copy of the SPA's scheme can also be accessed from the link below:
SPA Model Publication Scheme
The SPA is committed to delivering an open and transparent service whenever possible and it is our intention to include within our Publication Scheme information which we believe would be of interest to the public.
FAQs
We would encourage you to consult our Publication Scheme and refer to our FAQs before submitting a request as the information you seek may already be available or may not be held by the SPA. FAQs can be accessed from the link below:
The Scottish Information Commissioner
The Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 is enforced by the Scottish Information Commissioner. Enquirers should note the Scottish Information Commissioner's remit is limited to Scottish public authorities as defined by Section 3 of the Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002. Enquiries relating to bodies covered by the Freedom of Information Act 2000, and enquiries under the Data Protection Act 1998, should be directed to the Information Commissioner.
Contact Details:
The Office of The Scottish Information Commissioner
Kinburn Castle
Doubledykes Road
St Andrews
FIFE
KY16 9DS
Tel: 01334 464610
www.itspublicknowledge.info