IPCC compelled to process FoI requests

The ICO took enforcement action against the IPCC after it failed to resolve 69 freedom of information requests within the required 20 working day limit. The office had received nine complaints that the IPPC had failed to respond to requests for information within the statutory time limits. In addition, the IPPC admitted that it had some difficulties in responding to requests for information within the terms of the Freedom of Information Act and had a backlog of 72 requests. In an enforcement notice issued by the ICO on 11 June 2010, the watchdog says the IPCC must respond to requests which are overdue by 30 September 2010, either with the information requested or with a valid refusal notice. The IPCC is also required to resolve the cases referred to the ICO within 35 days. Failure to comply could result in the ICO referring the matter to the High Court, where the matter could be dealt with as contempt of court. Graham Smith, deputy commissioner, said: "I am concerned that the IPCC has denied people access to information by repeatedly failing to respond to requests in line with the act. "This enforcement notice serves as a strong signal to all public authorities that failure to respond is unacceptable. I am pleased that the IPCC reported the difficulties it was facing to us and hope that it will treat this notice with the urgency it requires by putting in place the necessary steps to answer all FoI requests in compliance with the act."