MP gives support over freedom of information laws call

EDINBURGH West Liberal Democrat MP Mike Crockart is backing calls to strengthen the UK's freedom of information legislation.

He has given his support to a bill introduced by fellow Lib Dem MP Tom Brake to amend the existing Freedom of Information Act to ensure requests are answered in a shorter time frame and all arms-length companies owned by local authorities and private companies wholly involved in the provision of services to local authorities can be included in the request.

His proposals would also remove the ministerial veto on publication of information and make it easier to prosecute people trying to destroy information.

Mr Crockart said: "The Freedom of Information Act has done a great job in creating a more open and accountable government. However, the experience of time has taught us that there are still too many publicly owned companies which operate under a veil of secrecy."

The MP added: "I am pleased to support Tom Brake's bill, which looks to make much needed amendments to the existing law and will make the Government and its organisations much more accountable."