West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority

The complainant has requested the incident log / report for a fire at a warehouse from West Midlands Fire Service (“WMFS”). WMFS refused to provide the requested information, citing section 40(2) (Personal information) of FOIA. WMFS also made some brief reference to sections 24(1) (National security), 38(1) (Health and safety) and 41(1) (Information provided in confidence), saying that they “may” apply; the Commissioner has used his discretion and considered these. The complainant has advised that he is happy for names, a telephone number and operational codes / call signs to be withheld. 

In respect of the remaining information, the Commissioner’s decision is that none of the cited exemptions are engaged. The Commissioner requires WMFS to disclose the withheld information other than any names, the journalist’s telephone number and any operation codes / call signs.