Public to give views on Freedom of Information Bill

Tue, 13 Jul 2010

Chief Minister Tony Brown MHK

The Manx public is being asked to comment on a Bill that would give them greater access to Government information.

The Freedom of Information Bill has been drafted, and goes out to public consultation until September 10th.

Currently, a Code of Practice on Access to Government Information exists, but means details are released on a voluntary basis.

The Freedom of Information Bill would mean the Government would have to release requested information.

It's expected the Bill will go before the House of Keys before the end of the year.

Similar legislation has been in place in the UK for five years, but Chief Minister Tony Brown says it was important that the Island didn't just copy the UK [play clip]