“Direct quote(s) and reporting of their feedback from contributors. Details
obtained in confidence.”
“S36(2)(c) Disclosure would reveal information about the University’s internal
decision making processes which would disrupt future processes.”
159. Due to the issues raised in this paragraph we accept that disclosure would
have been likely to prejudice the effectiveness of the conduct of public affairs.
160. From this and the other evidence we concluded that UoE did carry out the
PIBT appropriately.
161. The arguments for and against disclosure (assessed at the date of UoE’s
Response to the Request) mirror those relevant for the review of section 41.
162.
Reasons the public interest would favour disclosure in our view include:-
the desirability of transparency and openness.
to allow for the open free and frank exchange of ideas and views.
that elements of the redacted material if published might add to the readers
understanding.
because there was considerable interest in the issues that form the
background to this Appeal.
the importance of the subject matter for UoE, the Education sector and others
who wish to benefit from the Report’s insights.
to add to the public debate on these subjects.
to support freedom of speech and expression.
to protect academic freedom
163. Reasons the public interest would favour the maintenance of the
exemption include:
the public interest in ensuring people taking part investigations in the future
have the necessary trust in the confidential nature of the process (as explained
to them or expected by them) that they decide to be involved.
This is
especially so when the issues under review have such a high profile and raise
passionate responses.
47