2nd report [session 1995-96] : open government, together with the proceedings of the Committee relating to the report, minutes of evidence and appendices

In 1993 the Government published a Code of Pratice on Access to Government Information which would guarantee the volunteering of certain information to the public and the release of other information on request subject to a number of exemptions.

The Code came into effect on April 4th 1994. This report identifies a number of failings and omissions in relation to the current code, but does conclude that it is an important step forward which is already resulting in greater openness from government.

Many of the recommendations of this report can be quickly put into effect, although legislation would be required for a statutory regime.