This Act's main purpose is to implement the principles for a Freedom of Information Act set out in the White Paper entitled "Your Right to Know" (Cm 3818), in so far as it is appropriate to do so by primary legislation.

In December 1997, the Government issued a White Paper entitled "Your Right to Know" (Cm 3818) on its proposals for a Freedom of Information Act. This Act's main purpose is to implement the principles set out in the White Paper in so far as it is appropriate to do so by primary legislation. Some matters will be dealt with in secondary legislation, codes of practice or by administrative action. The Act creates new rights of access to information. It is intended to supersede the Code of Practice on Access to Government Information. The Act amends the Data Protection Act 1998 and the Public Records Act 1958. The main provisions are to: provide a right of access to recorded information held by public authorities; create exemptions from the duty to disclose information; and establish the arrangements for enforcement and appeal.