Labour MSP lodges plan at Holyrood to 'end SNP era of secrecy'

A proposed legislative initiative aims to significantly strengthen Freedom of Information rules in Scotland by extending coverage to private and third-sector bodies receiving public funding. This move addresses widespread criticism that the current system is insufficient, arguing that transparency obligations should follow public funds to close existing loopholes and enhance democratic accountability. The bill seeks to mandate dedicated officers, increase proactive information publication, and bolster enforcement mechanisms. Despite previous government refusals to update the legal framework, this proposal responds to strong public support and aims to restore Scotland’s international reputation for openness, which has been damaged by recent transparency failures and legal setbacks. This development is crucial for open data advocates as it highlights the urgent need to modernize access regimes. It underscores the importance of ensuring that all entities delivering public services are subject to rigorous disclosure requirements, thereby promoting greater transparency, compliance with human rights, and robust governance standards in the digital age.

Source: heraldscotland.com
Published on 2023-12-08