One World

Time for compliance (1)

What is the time limit for responding to a request for information?
The competent authority must inform the applicant in writing whether it holds the information requested and if so, communicate that information to the applicant as soon as possible, and no later than 30 days after receipt of the request. Wherever possible, public authorities should attempt to respond within any tighter timescale indicated by the applicant.

When does the 'clock' start?
The 30-day clock starts:

• the day after the competent authority receives the request, or

• the day after the competent authority receives more particulars (had the original request been formulated in too general a manner).