Introduction

What is a Publications Scheme?

Under the Freedom of Information Act, every public authority is required to adopt and maintain a Publication Scheme. This scheme will provide the public with a structured listing of any information released, with authorities undertaking a commitment to make it available to all. The Scheme must set out how it intends to publish the different classes of information it makes available and whether it intends to charge for providing the information in this scheme the term 'publication' refers to documents available in a variety of formats. For example, paper based documents such as memos, reports and books or computer files such as databases and web pages.

What are the benefits of this scheme?

The scheme brings together the many different types of information produced by Shrewsbury and Atcham Borough Council in a clear and structured way it classifies the information by type and provides details on how to obtain it.

Information which is routinely available

When the Publications Scheme requirement of the Freedom of Information Act is introduced in February 2003 information in this Scheme will be made available under Section 19 of the Act. Until then the information is provided under sections 3(i) to 3(iv) of the Code of Practice on Access to Government Information. However, some types of information in this scheme are made available under specific statutory requirements.

Providing other information on request

If the information you require is not made available in the Publications Scheme, you can still ask Shrewsbury and Atcham Borough Council if we have it and, if so, request to see it. We will make information available on request under Section 3(v) of the Code of Practice on Access to Government Information and the Environmental Information Regulations 1992. Details of any charges are explained under 'are there any charges for supplying information'. In January 2005 the Freedom of Information Act 2000 will be brought fully into force.

Code of Practice

The second edition of the Code of Practice on Access to Government Information was issued in 1997. Section 3 of the Code includes five commitments to supply, subject to the exemptions in Part II of the Code.

1. Facts and analysis with major policy decisions;

2. Open up internal guidelines about departments dealing with the public;

3. Supply reasons with administrative decisions;

4. Provide information under the Citizens Charter about public services, what they cost, targets, performance, complaints and redress; and

5. Respond to requests for information.

The Code of Practice can be viewed on the Lord Chancellor's Department Website at www.lcd.gov.uk/foi/ogcode982.htm 

Copies can be obtained free of charge

by telephoning 020 7273 3602

or by writing to : Freedom of Information and Data Protection Division, Room 912, 50 Queen Anne's Gate, London SW1H 9AT.