The Freedom of Information Act 2000 came into force on 1 January 2005, creating a new statutory "right to open government". It imposed new duties on public authorities regarding the disclosure and handling of information.

The fifth edition of this popular Guide offers the most up-to-date guidance on the Act, taking into account all the changes since the publication of the last edition. Most significantly, the developments have been in relation to the case law and this Guide features expert analysis of the most noteworthy decisions and their impact on this area of law. The Guide is essential reading those working within, or advising, public bodies; those advising clients with a personal, professional, or commercial interest in obtaining information; and those advising business clients on the accessibility of commercially sensitive information.

The Blackstone's Guide series delivers concise and accessible books covering the latest legislative changes and amendments. First published soon after enactment, they offer expert commentary by leading names on the scope, extent, and effects of the legislation, plus a full copy of the Act itself. They provide a cost-effective solution to key information needs and are the perfect companion for any practitioner needing to get up to speed with the latest changes.

John Wadham's profile page

Kelly Harris' profile page

Eric Metcalfe's profile page

John Wadham is a Solicitor and Executive Director of Interights (The International Centre for the Legal Protection of Human Rights). He was previously General Counsel for the Equality and Human Rights Commission, Deputy Chair of the Independent Police Complaints Commission, and Director of Liberty (the National Council for Civil Liberties). Kelly Harris is a solicitor specialising in public law, including freedom of information and human rights. Eric Metcalfe is a barrister at Monckton Chambers specialising in human rights, freedom of information, public law and EU law.

Review from previous edition: "The Freedom of Information Act 2000 creates a new legal landscape, and this book provides an excellent guide to the new terrain. At 311 pages long, it can be properly described as a handbook. However, while it is small and light enough to be easily portable, it is sufficiently detailed to serve as a full introduction for a lawyer new to the field."

--New Law Journal

"Once again the Blackstone's Guide series...has come up trumps in fulfilling its remit to publish topical and contemporary commentary by experts on recent (or recently amended) legislation. This time it's the Freedom of Information Act 2000 which comes under the microscope of informed, concise scrutiny within this latest Blackstone's Guide."

--Philip Taylor MBE and Elizabeth Taylor of Richmond Green Chambers