ABSTRACT
Local authorities in Britain have a history of encouraging access to their activities although this has principally taken the form of permitting access to meetings rather than to any information individual authorities might hold. They also have a tradition of seeking the involvement of the public in local processes of decision making although frequently in a way which enables views to be canvassed and expressed whilst not encouraging the exchange of information. Such involvement – or, as it is sometimes called, participation – has therefore been somewhat limited and has ensured that the balance of power in local politics remains with officials and politicians. It may therefore be argued that the public are at some disadvantage when attempting to contribute effectively to the decision making process in local government. In reviewing the implications of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 for local government this chapter will both consider the ways in which its provisions are likely to affect local authorities and also place the intentions and provisions of the Act within the context of wider attempts to increase public interest and involvement in the activities of local authorities.
