Information Commissioner's Office

Home Office

15 June 2017, Central government

The complainant requested copies of any correspondence involving Theresa May which makes reference to the South Thanet constituency from the Home Office (“HO”). The HO would neither confirm nor deny holding any information as it said to do so would exceed the appropriate limit, citing section 12(2) of the FOIA (cost of compliance). The Commissioner’s decision is that it was entitled to do so but that it breached section 16(1) of the FOIA (advice and assistance) in dealing with the request. No steps are required, however, in light of the additional information which has now been provided in this notice, the complainant may wish to submit a further request.

FOI 12: Not upheld FOI 16: Upheld