The complainant requested information regarding the frequency of random checks on applications for passports. Though it held the information, the Home Office relied on sections 31(1)(a) and (e) of FOIA not to communicate it to him. These provide that information can be withheld where disclosure would or would be likely to prejudice the prevention and detection of crime and the operation of immigration controls. The Commissioner’s decision is that the exemption afforded by section 31(1)(a) is engaged and the public interest test favoured the maintenance of the exemption.
Section of Act/EIR and Finding: FOI 31 – Complaint Not upheld
[2012] UKICO FS50432815
Bailii
England and Wales
Updated: 28 August 2021; Ref: scu.529562 br>