The Department for International Trade has been hit with an enforcement notice – the first to be issued in seven years – over its “persistent failures” in handling freedom of information requests.
The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), which today issued the notice, also warned that it will make full use of its powers. John Edwards, who leads the watchdog, stated the move “clearly marks the start of our new approach to regulating the Act".
The notice orders the Department for International Trade (DIT) to respond to requests older than 20 working days – the statutory time limit. Failure to comply within 35 calendar days of the notice could lead to the DIT being found in contempt of court.
