Note on Freedom of Information for suppliers to public authorities
Information that may be released under Freedom of Information law
The Freedom of Information Act 2015 comes into force on 1 February 2016. This gives the public the right of access to information held by public authorities.
What you could be asked for
A public authority may be asked questions about its various activities and it is probable that questions will be asked on financial matters e.g. travel and conference expenses, contracts and the supply of goods and services.
Information may need to be released under the Freedom of Information law if it is:
- held by us about a supplier of goods and services to a public authority
- held by a supplier in relation to a public authority contract or related provision of supplies to a public authority
While a supplier's own working processes will not be disclosed under Freedom of Information, documents or other information produced by a supplier relating to work undertaken under a contract with a public authority may need to be released under the law.
Exemptions
Sometimes the disclosure of certain information will be exempt under Freedom of Information law. Whether any exemptions apply will be a matter for the public authority to determine.
One of the factors a public authority must take into account is whether the public interest in withholding the information outweighs the public interest in disclosing it. Any decision made to release information is at the absolute discretion of the public authority.
As a matter of best practice, public authorities will consult with a supplier prior to the release of information.
Further information
If you currently have a contract with a public authority for the supply of goods and services, or if you are considering responding to a tender process or brief issued by a public authority, contact the Isle of Man Government Procurement Team on telephone number +44 1624 685562 or email procurement@gov.im.
