From 1 January 2005, the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act 2000 will give you a right of access to recorded information held by most public authorities, including Hertfordshire Police Authority, subject to certain exemptions.

After that date, if you ask us for information we will be required to:

Let you know in writing whether we hold information you have asked for; and

If we do, provide the information to you within 20 working days, unless it is subject to an exemption.

We also have a duty to provide advice or assistance to you or anyone seeking information (for example in order to explain what is readily available or to clarify what is wanted).

It might help you to know that information relating to police operations is held by the Constabulary; please follow this link:

http://www.herts.police.uk/

If you request information which is not held by the Police Authority:

	We will inform that you that we do not hold the information;
	If we consider that Hertfordshire Constabulary holds the information, we will inform you and seek your permission to transfer your request to them;
	If we do not know who holds the information, we will do our best to advise you and help you pursue your request.

It may help you to know that most of the information held by the Police Authority can be found in our Publication Scheme.

You also have a statutory right to access personal data held about you on computer or on paper.

About this publication scheme: