Department For Transport
- Date 27 June 2025
- Sector Central government
- Decision(s) FOI 35(1)(a): Upheld
The complainant has requested a copy of the response submitted by Devon County Council to the Department for Transport (DfT) consultation on proposed changes to bus franchising guidance. The DfT refused to provide this information applying section 35(1)(a) FOIA – formulation of government policy etc. The Commissioner has concluded that the requested information is not environmental information. The Commissioner’s decision is that the exemption at section 35 is engaged but he finds that the public interest in maintaining the exemption does not outweigh the public interest in disclosure. The Commissioner requires the DfT to take the following steps to ensure compliance with the legislation.
• Disclose the information falling within scope of the request subject to any appropriate redactions for personal data.