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Freedom of information at Birkbeck

The Freedom of Information Act 2000 (the Act) was fully implemented across the public sector from 1 January 2005. It is designed to make public organisations, including universities, more open and accountable.

Under the Act, Birkbeck has two obligations:

  • to produce and maintain a publications scheme
  • to respond to requests from the public for information.

HOW TO MAKE A REQUEST

You have the right, under the Act, to request any information held by Birkbeck that is not already made available through its publications scheme.

Requests should be made in writing and, in general, public authorities have 20 working days to respond.

Freedom of Information Officer
Birkbeck, University of London
Malet Street
London WC1E 7HX

If you request more than one paper copy, we will charge you a fee of 50p per page for this service, and notify you of the total charge before making copies.

WHICH INFORMATION YOU CAN REQUEST

Information that is exempt under the Act (such as information covered by the Data Protection Act) need not be released. Most exemptions are subject to a public interest test, which weighs up the benefits and disadvantages to the public of releasing certain information. However, public authorities may be required to explain to the applicant why they are not releasing information and they may also have to justify this to the Information Commissioner. 

While there are no limits to the amount of information that can be released, Birkbeck may refuse to supply multiple copies or to respond to vexatious or repeated requests.

FEEDBACK

The College welcomes feedback. It is important that our publications scheme meets your needs. If you find the scheme difficult to understand, please let us know. We also welcome suggestions as to how our scheme might be improved. Any questions, comments or complaints about this scheme should be sent in writing to:

College Secretary
Birkbeck, University of London
Malet Street
London
WC1E 7HX

If we are unable to resolve any complaint, you can complain to the Information Commissioner, the independent body that oversees the Freedom of Information Act:

Information Commissioner
Wycliffe House
Water Lane
Wilmslow
Cheshire
SK9 5AF

FURTHER INFORMATION