Freedom of Information

The Freedom of Information Act 2000 (FOI) gives a general right of access to information held by public authorities. It also requires each public authority to produce a publication scheme stating the information which it routinely makes available. Similar rights in regard to information about the environment have been created by the Environmental Information Regulations 2004 (EIR).

SOAS is subject to FOI and the EIR. These pages explain how the public can use FOI and EIR to obtain information about SOAS, and what staff need to do to ensure that SOAS meets its legal obligations in this area. If you require access to information about yourself, please read our Data Protection pages instead.

Further information about your rights under the Freedom of Information Act and the Environmental Information Regulations is available on the website of the Information Commissioner.

Freedom of Information Publication Scheme

The Publication Scheme describes the information which SOAS routinely makes available or intends to publish, and includes links to information which is available on-line. We recommend that you consult our publication scheme before you submit an FOI or EIR request, as many policies, procedures and other items of information have already been published and can be found via the Scheme.

Submitting a Freedom of Information or Environmental Information request

Explains how to submit an FoI or EIR request and how SOAS will process your request.

Freedom of Information and Environmental Information Appeal Procedures

SOAS's procedures for handling appeals relating to FoI and EIR requests .

Freedom of Information and Data Protection: Guidance for Committee Servicing

Explains the implications of the Freedom of Information Act and the Data Protection Act for committee secretaries and chairs , including what should go on open and reserved agendas.