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.

The Blackstone's Guide Series delivers concise and accessible books covering the latest legislation changes and amendments. Published within weeks of an Act, they offer expert commentary by leading names on the effects, extent and scope of the legislation, plus a full copy of the Act itself. They offer 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. The Identity Cards Act 2006 is a major piece of legislation which will fundamentally change the relationship between the state and the individual for people of all nationalities residing in the UK for more than three months. The Act will affect the operation of much existing legislation, including; the Data Protection Act 1998; the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984; the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000; the Race Relations Act 1976; the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999, and the Asylum and Immigration (Treatment of Claimants) Act 2004. The Act will have an impact on a wide range of legal areas, including; asylum and immigration; data protection and freedom of information; privacy; criminal; human rights; and civil liberties; and will introduce the following; - A complex range of new civil and criminal penalties - a new Commissioner's Office - New ways of working for those providing public services, such as the police, the NHS, the Passport Service, and benefit workers This Guide is written by two experienced practitioners currently based at Liberty, the National Council for Civil Liberties. Structured in a clear and logical way following the parts of the Act, it provides an up-to-date and informative guide, making it an essential purchase for practitioners and organisations working in a number of legal areas.