The following 'working assumptions' are intended to assist central government officials in considering how to handle requests for certain types of information.
Requests for information have to be considered on a case-by-case basis, and so the working assumptions will not be appropriate to all situations. However, they are designed to highlight the key factors in handling requests for particular types of information and to give direction on the most appropriate course.
You should seek further advice from your department's specialist freedom of information practitioners if you do not intend to handle a request in accordance with a working assumption. You should also be aware that all unusual or particularly complex requests will need further consideration beyond the usual working assumption.
This guidance summarises the government's view and will be regularly reviewed and updated to reflect legal and policy developments.