The SIC is effectively saying the FOI request isn't valid with a pseudonym
whereas the ICO is saying the use of a pseudonym may lead to a PA
considering the request as potentially vexatious which is a separate issue
so I wouldn't say it's the opposite position, just being looked at in a
different light.
Lee Gardiner
Records Manager
Department of Adult Services
Wigan MBC
x4140 or 01942 404140
[log in to unmask]
-----Original Message-----
From: GRAHAM Susan [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: Wed 28 June 2006 09:26
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: [data-protection] Pseudonyms and FOI requests
The Scottish Information Commissioner has taken the opposite position.
At http://www.itspublicknowledge.info/yourrights/yourrights5.htm, he says
"You must give your real name, as the public authority does not have to
answer your request if you have used a false name or pseudonym. The
Commissioner will not be able to carry out an investigation if he finds out
that you have used a false name.
If you have particular reasons for not wanting to reveal your identity to
the public authority, you should ask a friend or family member to make the
request for information."
Susan Graham
University Records Manager
Policy & Planning
University of Edinburgh
Old College
South Bridge
Edinburgh
EH8 9YL
Tel: 0131 6514 100
---------------------------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 27 Jun 2006 10:17:33 +0100
From: John Hughes <[log in to unmask]>
Subject: FW: [data-protection] Anonymity when making FOI requests of your
own organisation
ICO guidance on this is suitably precise and enlightening: "Although a
public authority may not designate a request as vexatious simply because the
applicant uses an obvious pseudonym, it may be prompted by the use of the
pseudonym to consider whether the request is vexatious. It should not,
however, base any decisions as to disclosure upon the name supplied by the
applicant ...."
John Hughes
Mayday Healthcare NHS Trust
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