Links
Freedom of Information Website
The Department for Constitutional Affairs
(DCA) website contains information on a wide range of very important policy areas
including Freedom of
Information (FOI).
Freedom of Information
This section offers information on the Freedom of Information Act 2000. It explains how to understand and use the Act, as well as what resources are available to help public authorities with implemention.
It contains the full Act along with all legislation and publications relating to freedom of information.
Visit the Freedom of Information website.
The Department of Constitutional Affairs (DCA) website also contains the following topics:
Human Rights
The Human Rights Unit's main responsibility is to ensure the successful implementation of the Human Rights Act 1998, which incorporates into UK law rights and freedoms guaranteed by the European Convention on Human Rights.
Here you will find all legislations that address human rights issues and all new reports, speeches and any other developments on human rights. You can also find information on International Human Rights and forthcoming seminars and study guides.
Data Protection
This section explains what the Data Protection Act 1998 means for individuals and organisations. It details good practice codes for organisations processing personal data, and what rights an individual has under the Act. This includes the issues surrounding transfers of personal data into the European Union and Internationally.
Furthermore, it explains the job of the Information Commissioner to oversee and enforce the Data Protection Act 1998 and Freedom of Information Act 2000. The Commissioner is a UK independent supervisory authority reporting directly to the UK parliament and has an international role as well as a national one.
Information on the 'Information Tribunal and National security Appeals Panel' is also contained here.
Data Sharing
This section contains all publications relating to Data Sharing and discusses policies that strike a balance between personal privacy and the needs of public authorities to share personal data in the delivery of public services.
It also offers a public sector toolkit on Data Sharing that includes guidance and examples of good practice on information handling, such as data sharing protocols.
Elections
The roles of the Department of Constitutional Affairs (DCA), Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM) and the Electoral Commission (EC) are explained here. In addition, it explains who is entitled to stand as a candidate in UK elections, gives information about applying to register a Political Party, how donations should be registered and how candidates and Election agents can claim expenses.
Details of the electoral process and time table are also given here.
Transsexual People
The Department for Constitutional Affairs has responsibility for Government policy on transsexual people. Here you will find information about the Gender Recognition Act 2004, which gives transsexual people legal recognition in their acquired gender and ensures that transsexual people are afforded all the rights and responsibilities appropriate to that gender. You will also find Frequently asked questions on the Gender Recognition Act 2004, contact details for any queries, relevant publications, and useful links.
Last update: 09 September 2004