Data for number of Freedom of Information requests withdrawn and re-submitted: FOI release

Information requested

I received a highly unusual request from a Scottish Government official asking for a call regarding my request, in which I was asked to withdraw and re-submit my request because I would not receive the request within the statutory deadline. I have never been asked this before and do not believe it is proper practice, so this unorthodox request means that I have reason to believe this freedom of information request was not dealt with in the normal way.

During calendar year 2024, on how many occasions were people asked to withdraw and re-submit FOI requests?

Response

I am sorry that you received this call. I have highlighted that this is not normal practice and asked the team to ensure this does not happen in the future. However, please know that this issue did not affect the outcome of your request. Following my review of this case, I can assure you that the appropriate searches have been conducted and that you have received all of the information available within the scope of your request.

I have interpreted your request to include all FOI and EIR withdrawn cases in 2024.

From my review of withdrawn cases, I have found no other cases where the requester has been asked to withdraw and resubmit FOI or EIR requests.

This is not the approved process that Scottish Government follow so I can conclude that the case highlighted in the Review request you refer to is highly unusual.

The only reasons where we would withdraw a request are:

• if the requester requests this or
• there has been an admin error, and we have set up duplicate cases.

The Scottish Government is required to answer all valid FOI and EIR requests.

Following this incident, the FOI Unit has discussed correct approach with the relevant team and will review current training products to ensure case handlers are clear on procedure.

If a request is too broad in scope and therefore breaches the upper cost limit, we do advise the requester of this, quoting the appropriate legislation. In these cases, we often offer advice on how to reduce the scope for future requests to enable the requester to receive the information they are seeking.

About FOI

The Scottish Government is committed to publishing all information released in response to Freedom of Information requests. View all FOI responses at https://www.gov.scot/foi-responses.