Briefing materials for the Acting Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy's meeting with the German Energy Minister: FOI release

Information requested

All briefing materials prepared ahead of the Acting Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy's meeting with German Energy Minister Udo Phillip, and any notes/minutes recording what was discussed.

Response

I enclose a copy of some of the information you requested.

While our aim is to provide information whenever possible, in this instance we are unable to provide some of the information you have requested because exemptions under sections: s.38(1)(b) (personal information) and s.30(c) (prejudice the effective conduct of public affairs) of FOISA applies to that information. The reasons why that exemption(s) applies are explained below.

S.38(1)(b) (Personal Information)

This exemption is not subject to the 'public interest test', so we are not required to consider if the public interest in disclosing the information outweighs the public interest in applying the exemption.

S.30(c) (Prejudice the Effective Conduct of Public Affairs)

This exemption is subject to the 'public interest test'. Therefore, taking account of all the circumstances of this case, we have considered if the public interest in disclosing the information outweighs the public interest in applying the exemption. We have found that, n balance, the public interest lies in favour of upholding the exemption. We have found that, on balance, the public interest lies in upholding the exemption.

We recognise that there is some public interest in release because there is a general interest in open and transparent government. However, this is outweighed by the public interest in ensuring Ministers have the opportunity to fully consider reports drafted by their officials as they are developed and discuss any sensitivities in private before making decisions.

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FOI 202500458275 - Information released - Documents

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