Freedom of Information Act (2000)
The Freedom of Information Act 2000 gives a general right of access to all types of recorded information held by public authorities.
The Freedom of Information Act defines:
What information must be made available?
- What may be withheld (exemptions)
- How public authorities must respond to anyone making a request for information
It should be noted that the Port of Dover Police is entirely funded by the Dover Harbour Board. The Dover Harbour Board nominate individuals who may be appointed as constables by justices of the peace and thereafter enjoy full constabulary powers and privileges within the jurisdiction of the Port of Dover Police. The Dover Harbour Board is not a public authority and as such is not bound by the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act. However, Schedule 1, Part V, of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 does impose certain obligations upon the Dover Harbour Board to make information available if it relates to the functions of a constable.
In the spirit of openness and the intention of the Act, the Port of Dover Police will endeavour to make available any information that the public have an interest in viewing. We do however, reserve the right to refuse disclosure of certain information if it is not relative to our constabulary functions. All requests for information will receive due consideration.
Information available (publication scheme)
Public authorities must make as much information as possible available through a publication scheme. The scheme sets out the classes (or types) of information available, how the information will be published and whether any charges apply. Find out more about the Port of Dover Police publication scheme.
Enforcement of the Freedom Of Information Act
The Information Commissioner (an independent government official) is responsible for making sure that all public authorities comply with the Act, including the police. The aim of the Information Commissioner’s Office is to promote public access to official information and protect personal information held about you.
Visit the Information Commissioner’s website for more information
Freedom of Information Act Exemptions
We are committed to delivering an open and transparent service whenever possible and it is our intention to publish information in our Publication Scheme that the public have an interest in viewing. However, as we are committed to protecting the port community we serve, preventing and detecting crime, it must be recognised that certain information concerning ongoing investigations, investigative methods, intelligence, personal information and the use of related operational techniques must be protected. In this respect the Port of Dover police may, when appropriate, apply certain exemptions afforded under the Act.