'Fine words not enough' on freedom of information

Public bodies should be ready to "hit the ground running" when the Freedom of Information Act takes effect next January, the information commissioner has said.

Publishing his annual report on Wednesday, Richard Thomas also warned traditionally secretive Whitehall departments that they must show a clear commitment to the principles of the new legislation.

The watchdog said there were welcome indications "that Whitehall departments and other public bodies are recognising the benefits of open government".

But he said that this commitment "must be backed up by clear action".

"I'm encouraged by the commitment voiced and demonstrated among public bodies to freedom of information but fine words are not enough," said Thomas.

"Training is underway, FoI champions have been appointed and a culture change has been promised but the real test will come in just five months time when the Act comes into full force."

The report spells out how departments and other public bodies are expected to respond to requests for information, and how the commissioner's office will deal with complaints about withheld information.

"Government must not be a secretive machine, locked away from public view," said the commissioner.

"FoI provides an opportunity to make government more open and accountable, to build trust where it is lacking and to engage people in the democratic process.

"All public bodies must come to see the benefits for themselves, rather than be dragged into greater disclosure against their will.

"Public interest lies at the heart of freedom of information legislation and the presumption must be in favour of disclosure."

Thomas added that all the bodies covered by the Act "must be ready to hit the ground running when FoI comes into force".

He warned that "ignorance or lack of preparation time are not excuses we will be able to accept".