Data Protection and Right to Information - Reconciling the Irreconcilable

Three common issues arise when dealing with personal exemptions: what constitutes personal data, fairness, and disclosure. This video from the UK Information Commissioner's Office shows where the specific provision of Section 40 of the England and Wales Freedom of Information (FOI) Act, which exempts public authorities from disclosing personal information and gives specific conditions under which this exemption is granted, was discussed. The provision strikes a balance between an individual’s right to privacy and an organization’s obligation to disclose information, wherein the balancing act is usually in favor of the requestor. It is one of the most commonly used exemptions since the passage of the FOI Act.