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This legal template specifically pertains to the response letter issued by a public authority or government body in the United Kingdom in relation to a Freedom of Information (FOI) request. The purpose of this template is to provide a comprehensive and compliant response that covers all requested information, while adhering to the guidelines and regulations outlined in UK law.

The FOI Act, enacted in the UK, grants individuals the right to access information held by public authorities. When a request for information is made by a member of the public under this legislation, the public authority is obligated to respond within a specified timeframe. This legal template ensures that the response letter includes all relevant information as required by law, ensuring compliance and transparency.

The template takes into account the specific provisions outlined in the UK legislation, affirming the requesting party's rights to access information and clarifying the responsibilities of the public authority in responding to the request. It includes sections addressing the acknowledgement of the initial FOI request, details of the requested information, explanations of any exemptions or redactions applied, and a timeline for the provision of the information.

Furthermore, the template also highlights the public authority's obligation to promote openness and transparency, and the importance of balancing this with any legitimate withholding of information that falls under the prescribed exceptions. The response letter proactively provides clear explanations and justifications for any redactions or denials of access, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and supporting an informed decision-making process.

Overall, this legal template offers a comprehensive and legally compliant framework for public authorities in the UK to draft their responses to Freedom of Information requests. It ensures that all necessary information is provided, in alignment with the statutory requirements outlined in UK law, fostering transparency and accountability in the public sector.

Title: Freedom of Information Request Response Letter Confirming Another Source - UK Legal Template

Description:
The "Freedom of Information Request Response Letter Confirming Another Source" is a legal template designed specifically to aid organizations or public authorities in the United Kingdom in responding to a request made under the Freedom of Information Act 2000, where the requested information can be obtained from an alternative source.

In accordance with the UK legislation, the Freedom of Information Act provides individuals the right to access a wide range of information held by public authorities. When a formal request is received, organizations must process and respond to it within a specific timeframe, usually within 20 working days. This legal template is useful in cases where the requested information is already available from a separate, published source, eliminating the need for a formal disclosure process.

This template serves as a standardized response letter that an organization can use to inform the requesting party of the availability of the requested information through an alternative source. By using this legal document, the organization can maintain transparency and compliance with the law while saving time and resources that would otherwise be spent gathering and disclosing the same information.

Key Components:
1. Date and Sender: The letter should begin with the organization's name, address, and contact details, followed by the date of the response.
2. Reference: The response letter should contain a unique identifier or reference number related to the initial request for easy identification.
3. Recipient Details: The letter should include the name and address of the individual or organization that made the initial Freedom of Information (FOI) request.
4. Introduction: The letter should briefly acknowledge the receipt of the FOI request and confirm that the organization has undertaken a thorough review to determine the availability of the requested information.
5. Confirmation of Alternative Source: The main body of the letter should clearly state that the requested information is already published and accessible through a specific source, such as a public register, website, or previously released document.
6. Additional Guidance: If necessary, the organization may provide any relevant guidance or instructions on how the requester can access the information from the alternative source, ensuring ease of retrieval.
7. Conclusion: The letter should conclude by reiterating the organization's commitment to transparency and willingness to assist with any further clarification or support.
8. Contact Information: Finally, the letter should provide contact details for any queries or concerns related to the response or the requested information.

Note: It is important to seek legal advice to ensure compliance with the Freedom of Information Act, as each case may have specific nuances or requirements. This template serves as a starting point for drafting such a response letter.