Freedom Of Information Request Response Letter Confirming Absolute Exemption

This legal template is a formal letter designed to respond to a Freedom of Information (FOI) request under UK law. The purpose of the template is to confirm that the requested information is exempt and cannot be disclosed due to an absolute exemption under UK legislation.

When a public organization or government entity receives an FOI request, they are legally obligated to respond within a specified timeframe. This response letter template assures the requester that their inquiry has been duly considered, and explains that the information they sought falls under a specific category of exemption.

Under UK law, there are various types of exemptions that can be applied to requested information. While some exemptions are qualified and involve a public interest test, others are absolute exemptions, meaning that the information cannot be disclosed under any circumstances. This template is specifically for situations where the exemption invoked is absolute.

The response letter will typically outline the specific reasons for the absolute exemption, citing the relevant legislation and legal provisions that support this decision. Additionally, the template may include a brief explanation about the importance of safeguarding the protected information and how its disclosure could harm public interests, national security, personal privacy, commercial confidence, or other confidentiality concerns.

It is crucial that this response letter maintains a formal and professional tone, clearly conveying the organization's commitment to adhering to legal requirements while upholding the principles of transparency and accountability. By utilizing this template, organizations can ensure that their responses to FOI requests conform to the legal framework and provide a clear and concise explanation for withholding the requested information under an absolute exemption.